Findings

Note well-demarcated masses of neoplastic cells arising from the epidermis and growing downward into the dermis. The cells forming the periphery of the tumor cell masses tend to be arranged radially with their long axis nearly in parallel arrangement (palisading).

Impression

Basal cell carcinoma

Pathology Pointer

Basal cell carcinoma arises from the epidermal basal layer and usually retains its histologic resemblance to the latter. The tumor masses are embedded in a mucinous substance, which appears as a narrow, clear space around them.

Preparation

Fixed, H & E stain

View

Light micrograph

Specimen

Skin

Image Credit

Katsumi M. Miyai, M.D., Ph.D
Department of Pathology
School of Medicine
University of California, San Diego