CORRELATION OF PD-1 EXPRESSION WITH BASAL CELL CARCINOMA SUBTYPE

Abstract

Background:Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common non-melanotic skin cancer in the world. Generally, basal cell carcinoma is commonly found in the head, face, and neck regions, with an age range of 40 to 70 years. The role of PD-1/PDL-1 in BCC has been widely studied, particularly in locally advanced, inoperable and metastatic cases, where research findings indicate high PD-1/PDL-1 expression in these BCC types. However, specific studies focusing on PD-1 expression in BCC based on recurrence risk have not been found. Methods: This study is a correlation analysis using a cross-sectional approach on 35 BCC samples collected from January 1, 2019, to December 31, 2022, employing Chi-square and Somers’ d analysis tests. Result: The mean age of BCC cases was 58 years, ranging from 22 to 84 years, with the most common tumor location being the head and neck region. A correlation was found between PD-1 expression and BCC recurrence risk subtype (p = 0.000, r = -0.538), whereas no significant correlation was observed between PD-1 expression and age (p > 0.05) or tumor location (p > 0.05). Conclusion: The low PD-1 expression in high-risk of recurrence BCC subtypes suggests the need for reconsideration of anti-PD-1 therapy in these cases.