All are true about basal cell carcinoma except
**Core Concept**
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer, characterized by uncontrolled proliferation of basal cells in the epidermis. It is a result of chronic UV radiation exposure, leading to mutations in the TP53 and PTCH genes. BCCs are generally slow-growing and locally invasive, but rarely metastasize.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer will be the option that is not true about basal cell carcinoma. This requires understanding the characteristics and behavior of BCC. BCCs are indeed slow-growing and locally invasive, but they do have the potential to cause significant damage to surrounding tissues if left untreated. The TP53 and PTCH genes are key players in the development of BCC, with mutations in these genes leading to uncontrolled cell growth.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because BCCs are not usually aggressive in their growth pattern. While they can cause significant tissue damage, they are generally slow-growing and do not rapidly invade surrounding tissues.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because BCCs are not typically associated with a high risk of metastasis. In fact, metastasis is extremely rare in BCC, and it is not a characteristic that defines this type of skin cancer.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because BCCs are indeed associated with chronic UV radiation exposure. The UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds can cause mutations in the TP53 and PTCH genes, leading to the development of BCC.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember that BCCs can appear in areas that are not typically exposed to the sun, such as the soles of the feet or the genital area. This is because chronic UV radiation exposure is not the only risk factor for BCC development.
**Correct Answer: B. BCCs rarely metastasize.**