Background and purpose: Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common malignancy in human. The lesions are more prevalent in areas exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light and covered areas of the body. The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical and histopathological subtype of BCC adjusted to anatomical location in Iranian patients (in west of the country).

Materials and methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was performed in patients who had BCC biopsy in Hamedan Farshchian Hospital, 2009-2011. Different data such as age, sex, duration of disease, anatomic location, size of lesions and risk factors were recorded using a questionnaire.

Results: There were 223 BCC patients (mean age: 62.90 ± 13.45) including 57.3% males and 42.7% females. Face and scalp were the most affected anatomical locations (92%) and 71.3% were nodular lesions.

Conclusion: According to this study, BCC occurred in areas exposed to sunlight, mainly head and face. This signifies the need for sun protection.