Basal cell carcinoma: review of epidemiology, pathogenesis, and associated risk factors.
BACKGROUND
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is extremely common, and its incidence continues to rise.


OBJECTIVE
This review presents the literature pertaining to the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and risk factors associated with BCC.


CONCLUSIONS
The risk of developing BCC depends on both genetic predisposition and exposure to risk. Fair-skinned people account for the overwhelming majority of patients, beyond what would be expected by skin phototype alone. Damage to multiple lines of defense appears to be necessary for cancer development and spread. This damage distorts the concerted effort of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) repair, immunosurveillance, and cellular growth regulation to protect against malignant progression. Ultraviolet light exposure is the most critical modifiable factor determining early expression and frequency of BCC development.
Lear
William
W
Division of Dermatology, University of Toronto, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada.
Dahlke
Erin
E
Murray
Christian A
CA
D017209:Apoptosis / Q000502:physiology; D002280:Basal Cell Carcinoma / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000209:etiology* / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery; D004249:DNA Damage; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D012307:Risk Factors; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000209:etiology* / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery; D013472:Sunlight; D014466:Ultraviolet Rays / Q000009:adverse effects