Comparative morphometric analysis of aggressive and ordinary basal cell carcinoma of the skin

Cancer. 1990 Feb 1;65(3):544-9. doi: 10.1002/1097-0142(19900201)65:3<544::aid-cncr2820650327>3.0.co;2-o.

Abstract

A morphometric analysis was performed on histologic sections of 11 cases of aggressive basal cell carcinoma that recurred and/or metastasized after the first diagnosis (BCC2) and on 11 ordinary basal cell carcinomas (BCC1). The considered parameters were as follows: nuclear area, perimeter, maximum diameter, feret x, feret y, form perimeter, and form area. The results show numeric differences between the two groups for the first five parameters. A statistical analysis was performed between BCC1 and BCC2 for all the considered parameters using a two-sided t test for independent samples. The test showed significant differences between the first five parameters except for the two form factors. A multivariate analysis was performed using area and perimeter values of the compared groups that amplified the discrimination threshold between the two groups. The authors conclude that a morphometric assessment may bring significant contribution in the knowledge and in the outcome prediction of basal cell carcinoma.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Carcinoma, Basal Cell / pathology*
  • Carcinoma, Basal Cell / secondary
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / pathology
  • Prognosis
  • Skin Neoplasms / pathology*