Diagnostic Value of Dermoscopic Structures in Predicting Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma in the Skin of Color Publisher

Summary: Dermoscopy may enhance diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma in darker skin, showing 55% specificity—higher than visual methods. Could this improve outcomes? #Dermatology #BCCResearch

Khalili M ; Mirahmadi S ; Shamsimeymandi S ; Dabiri S ; Amiri R ; Rezaei Zadeh Rukerd MRZ ; Aflatoonian M
Source: Advanced Biomedical Research Published:2024

Abstract

Background: Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) manifests different dermoscopic patterns in individuals with dark skin complexion compared to those with fair skin types. This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic utility of dermoscopy in discerning superficial BCC from other types of BCC, specifically in patients with dark skin complexion. Materials and Methods: This cross‑sectional study focuses on patients diagnosed with BCC who were referred for skin biopsy between July 2020 and September 2022. Initially, the demographic characteristics of patients, clinical attributes of lesions, and pathological sub‑types of BCC were documented. Subsequently, videodermoscopy was employed to capture comprehensive views and dermoscopic images of the lesions. Univariate logistic regression analysis was then utilized to assess the reliability of dermoscopic structures in distinguishing superficial BCC from other BCC types. Last, the study evaluated the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of dermoscopy in the differentiation of superficial BCC from other BCC sub‑types. Results: The study enrolled 49 patients diagnosed with BCC, with a mean age of 66.22 ± 10.41 years. The most prevalent pathological sub‑type observed was nodular (53.1%).Dermoscopy exhibited a higher specificity compared to the naked eye in the differentiation of superficial BCC from other types (55% vs. 35%, respectively).Univariate analysis revealed a significant association between spoke‑wheel structures and superficial BCC (P = 0.02, odds ratio = 7.2, 95% confidence interval = 1.35–38.32). Conclusion: Dermoscopy exhibited superior specificity compared to the naked eye in differentiating superficial BCC from other BCC types. Notably, the spoke‑wheel structure demonstrated the most robust correlation with superficial BCC. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.