Navigating basaloid squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity: an insight into the lesion

Objectives: To provide a comprehensive insight into the clinicopathological characteristics, immunohistochemical profile, differential diagnosis, and treatment modalities of Basaloid Squamous Cell Carcinoma (BSCC) of the oral cavity, an aggressive variant of conventional squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Material and Method: A detailed review of existing literature was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar. Studies describing the clinicopathological, immunohistochemical and therapeutic aspects of BSCC in the head and neck region, particularly the oral cavity, were included. The collected data was then critically analyzed to summarize the findings. Results: BSCC accounts for approximately 15% of head and neck SCCs. It commonly affects males in the sixth decade of life and is associated with tobacco use, alcohol consumption and HPV infection (especially type 16). Histopathologically, BSCC is characterized by lobular nests of basaloid cells with hyperchromatic nuclei, comedo-like necrosis, and areas of squamous differentiation. Clinically, BSCC exhibits aggressive behaviour, with high rates of cervical lymph node and distant metastases (up to 75%). Conclusion: Basaloid Squamous Cell Carcinoma is a rare but highly aggressive variant of SCC, often diagnosed at advanced stages with frequent metastasis. Accurate diagnosis requires combination of histopathological evaluation and immunohistochemical profiling to differentiate it from other basaloid tumours.