Pathology · single question
A patient has multiple basal cell carcinomas (BCC) on the face. Which area has the HIGHEST recurrence rate?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Periorbital / under eyelid area
BCC recurrence is highest in the "H-zone" or "mask area" of the face — periorbital (around/under the eyes), nose, nasolabial folds, and ears. These embryonic fusion plane areas have poorly defined tissue barriers allowing deeper BCC spread and technically difficult surgical margins, leading to higher recurrence rates.
- A. ❌ The forehead develops BCC but has lower recurrence than the periorbital area.
- B. ❌ The cheek has lower recurrence rates than the H-zone.
- C. ✅ Periorbital (under eyelid) — highest BCC recurrence; embryonic fusion planes + difficult surgical margins.
- D. ❌ Philtrum is in the H-zone but the periorbital area specifically has the highest recurrence.