Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (WOCN) Practice Exam

Basal cell carcinoma is known to be what type of malignancy?

1. Least common malignancy

2. Most common malignancy

3. Immunogenic malignancy

4. Highly metastatic malignancy

The correct answer is: Most common malignancy

Basal cell carcinoma is recognized as the most common type of skin malignancy. This characterization stems from its prevalence, particularly in fair-skinned populations and areas with high sun exposure. Basal cell carcinoma typically arises in the epidermis, the outer layer of the skin, and is more frequent than any other form of skin cancer. While it is true that basal cell carcinoma has a low potential for metastasis, which means it rarely spreads to other parts of the body, this quality does not define its malignancy status. Furthermore, it is not classified as an immunogenic malignancy since it does not typically provoke a strong immune response. Lastly, referring to it as the least common malignancy is inaccurate, given its high incidence compared to other malignancies. Thus, defining basal cell carcinoma as the most common malignancy effectively encapsulates its prevalence in oncology.