Final answer:
Morpheaform / infiltrative / sclerotic BCC is an aggressive and invasive form of basal cell carcinoma with a higher recurrence risk, necessitating prompt medical attention for diagnosis and treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
Morpheaform / infiltrative / sclerotic basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a less common but more aggressive form of BCC. Unlike squamous cell carcinoma, which affects the squamous cells in the epidermis and rarely metastasizes, basal cell carcinoma arises from the basal cells located in the deepest layer of the epidermis. Morpheaform BCC is characterized by its scar-like appearance, with a white or yellow waxy area that's often poorly defined. Because of its growth pattern, which infiltrates surrounding tissues, it can be more difficult to treat and has a higher risk of recurrence compared to other forms of BCC.
This type of BCC typically does not metastasize but can be locally invasive, damaging nearby tissues and structures, and thus requires adequate and timely treatment. It's important for individuals to have any suspicious skin lesions examined by a healthcare provider, especially those that have a non-healing appearance, to ensure an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.