Micro vessel density as an indicator of invasive growth pattern in basal cell carcinoma

The influence of micro vessel density and tumor angiogenesis on the aggressiveness of basal cell carcinoma was investigated. Therefore, immunhistochemical staining for CD 31, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and HIPPEL-LINDAU's protein were performed in 9 cases of facial basal cell carcinoma. In conclusion, there were no direct correlation between micro vessel density and angiogenesis on the growth pattern and aggressiveness in basal cell carcinoma. Parole chiave: Basal cell carcinoma, angiogenesis, prognosis