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Basal cell carcinoma
Date Issued | Volume | Issue | Start Page | End Page |
---|---|---|---|---|
2023-06-10 | 59 | Suppl. 2 | 195 | 195 |
Introduction. Basal cell cancer (BCC) is a type of skin cancer that forms in the basal cell layer, accounting for nearly 80% of all skin cancers and mostly occurs in men and individuals over the age of 50. Most common risk factors are ultraviolet radiation (UVR), light-coloured skin, eyes and hair, immunodeficiency, personal and family history of skin cancer. We present this clinical case of BCC due to its atypical clinical presentation. Case description (case reports only) A 33-year-old woman presented with complaints of an itchy 0,8 cm light red patch on her left upper back. The patient noted that the patch has been growing gradually for the past six months. After visually inspecting the affected area, a digital dermoscopy was performed to inspect the skin lesion which was similar to nonspecific dermatitis: brownish, salmon-coloured, scaly patch with regular borders. Additionally, the patient has ulcerative colitis (UC), which is being treated with Mesalazine 2g/d. Based on the medical examination and patient’s anamnesis, a clinical diagnosis of dermatitis was made and treatment was initiated. After several months of ineffective treatment, a 3.5 mm tissue biopsy was performed in local anaesthesia for histological clarification. Histolopathological analysis demonstrated a Superficial Multifocal BCC and the patient underwent surgical tumor resection. Summary (case reports only) BCC is uncommon in young adults- only 1,86% of all cases are people under 35 y/o. In our case, due to the atypical clinical presentation and lack of risk factors, the diagnosis of BCC wasn’t considered at first glance. Nevertheless, ulcerative colitis might be an important factor and shouldn’t be overlooked, since people with UC are more likely to have BCC. Conclusions The importance of differentiation and clear medical history are crucial in making the right diagnosis. If the damaged skin area expands and the origin is not clear, histological clarification is necessary.