1. BCCs

If you are doing skin cancer work then you need to have some idea of the histology of the lesions you are biopsying. You need to know the terms used in dermatopathology reports to assess their significance. It is not enough to look at the diagnosis at the end. BCCs are managed on the nature of their histological pattern. There is a big difference in management options between a superficial multifocal BCC and an infiltrating or morphoeic BCC.

 BCCs- Pathology relates to the treatments used

Superficial bcc V Nodular bcc V Infiltrating or Morphoeic

Thickness - penetration of creams eg Aldara and red light in PDT

Significance of Infiltrating BCC with these modalities

Basisquamous BCC

BCC with perineural spread

BCC in vessels- very rare

You can purchase a year's access to Modules 1 and 2 on BCCs and SCCs for $50. When you have completed Modules 1-7B you can sit the Certificate Examination on Skin Cancer Pathology of the Australian Institute of Dermatology and Skin Cancer College of Australia and New Zealand.