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1Pulmonary Division, Naval Medical Center, San Diego, Calif. 92134-1005, USA. wmacal@snd10.med.navy.mil
Respiration; International Review of Thoracic Diseases
|April 15, 1999
Summary
Basal cell carcinoma is usually indolent but can become aggressive. This case highlights a rare instance of lung metastasis leading to fatal respiratory failure.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is typically a slow-growing skin cancer.
- Local therapies are generally effective for most BCC cases.
Observation:
- This report details a rare case of neglected basal cell carcinoma.
- The tumor exhibited aggressive local growth and metastasized to the lung.
Findings:
- Metastatic basal cell carcinoma to the lung can lead to rapid respiratory compromise.
- The patient experienced fatal respiratory failure due to the metastatic tumor.
Implications:
- Highlights the critical importance of timely and adequate treatment for basal cell carcinoma.
- Underscores the potential for rare but severe complications, including metastasis and death, from neglected BCC.