Integration of LC-OCT Imaging and AI for Non-Invasive Detection of Basal Cell Carcinoma: A Technical Application

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common skin cancer. Early non-invasive diagnosis can reduce the use of unnecessary biopsies and optimise the treatment pathway. This communication illustrates the application of LC-OCT imaging integrated with artificial intelligence (AI) for the non-invasive diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma (BCC). A nodular lesion on the nasal dorsum was evaluated using dermoscopy and LC-OCT. The application of an AI algorithm on LC-OCT images automatically highlighted the tumour areas, which matched the operator's manual assessment. The AI analysis suggested circumscribed margins, without further microscopic extension. Subsequent histological analysis was consistent with the features identified by LC-OCT and AI evaluation. These results support the efficacy of the combined LC-OCT and AI approach for the rapid, accurate, and non-invasive diagnosis of BCC, reducing the need for biopsies and improving treatment planning. Further prospective studies will be needed to validate the use of AI-LC-OCT in daily clinical practice.