Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) causing spinal cord compression

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common cutaneous malignancy affecting populations with light skin, though these tumors rarely cause severe morbidity or mortality. We report an adult male with back pain and leg weakness associated with a neglected, ulcerated lower back tumor of fifteen years duration. The clinical impression of BCC causing spinal cord compression was confirmed by microscopy and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).