Advanced Health Assessment Practice Exam

Which characteristic is typical of basal cell carcinoma?

1. Rapid growth

2. Silvery scales

3. Pearly borders with central ulcers

4. Irregular shapes

The correct answer is: Pearly borders with central ulcers

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is characterized by specific clinical features that help differentiate it from other skin cancers. One of the most typical characteristics of BCC is the presence of pearly borders with central ulcers. This appearance is often described as having a shiny, translucent quality, making it quite distinctive when observed in clinical practice. The pearly borders are due to the accumulation of abnormal basal cells, which can proliferate and create a raised, rolled edge around the lesion. As the tumor progresses, it may develop a central ulceration, giving it a characteristic "dipped" appearance in the middle. This combination of features is a hallmark of basal cell carcinoma and serves as an important visual clue for healthcare providers in the assessment and diagnosis of skin lesions. In contrast, rapid growth is more typical of other types of skin lesions, such as melanoma, which can present with more aggressive characteristics. Silvery scales are indicative of conditions like psoriasis rather than BCC. Irregular shapes may suggest melanoma or other malignancies but do not apply to the more common and typically well-defined edges of basal cell carcinoma lesions.