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Ultrasound features of high-risk basal cell carcinoma: a systematic review

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Abstract

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most prevalent skin cancer and continues to witness a surge in incidence rates. The categorization of BCC subtypes into low or high risk, guided by recurrence and invasiveness metrics, underscores the need for precise differentiation. While the punch biopsy remains the gold standard for diagnosis, its invasiveness prompts a need for non-invasive alternatives. Ultrasound (US) has emerged as a noteworthy candidate, gaining momentum in its potential to offer a less intrusive diagnostic approach. We conducted a systematic review regarding features of the high-risk subtypes of BCC on US. A thorough literature search of PubMed Medline, Embase, and CINAHL databases was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines and a total of nine studies meeting our inclusion criteria were included in this review. Evidence is still nascent but US features such as lesional shape, depth, hyperechoic spots, and color doppler may be helpful in differentiating high-risk BCC subtypes. However, further prospective studies with standardized interventions and outcome measures are required.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. HCA Medical City Plano Graduate Medical Education, Plano, Texas, USA

    Raza Khan

  2. Dow University of Health Sciences Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan

    Amna Ahmed

  3. Department of Dermatology, SUNY Downstate, Brooklyn, USA

    Amor Khachemoune

  4. Department of Dermatology, Veterans Affairs New York Harbor Healthcare System, 800 Poly Place, Sindh, New york, 11209, Pakistan

    Amor Khachemoune

Authors
  1. Raza Khan
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  2. Amna Ahmed
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  3. Amor Khachemoune
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Contributions

All authors contributed to the origination of the idea. R.K. and A.A. conducted the literature search, screening, and drafted the work. A.K. revised the work. All authors reviewed the manuscript.

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Correspondence to Amor Khachemoune.

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Khan, R., Ahmed, A. & Khachemoune, A. Ultrasound features of high-risk basal cell carcinoma: a systematic review. Arch Dermatol Res 316, 210 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00403-024-02949-7

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00403-024-02949-7

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