Superficial BCC Features

• Lobule like protrusion of basal cells confined to a nest structure originating from the Stratum Basale/ DEJ

• Peripheral boundary in superficial types is always more prominent on dermis facing side of nest

• DEJ alteration is always prominent in superficial nests

• Dermis protruding growth of the basal layer disrupts the expected undulating pattern of the DEJ

• DEJ often appears darker in areas where nests present

• Associated with, if not directly connected with the epidermis

• Peripheral boundary often less obvious except on dermis facing side

• Typically the boundaries of epidermally bound basal cells nests appear more diffuse then their nodular counterparts

• Epidermal thinning can occur above the nest site as a result of ulceration

• Nests can sometimes be easily identified by a distinct lower cleft region appearing like a horseshoe, underlining the nest

• Larger more established nests often have areas of areflectivity at their core

• This areflective core is due to tissue fluid from the central necrosis that occurs in some basal nests