Basal cell carcinoma mistaken for actinic keratosis

Increasing age and UV exposure are well-known associations with precancerous and cancerous skin lesions, including actinic (solar) keratosis, and squamous and basal cell carcinomata. This report describes a patient with a facial skin lesion close to an eye that was initially believed to be actinic (solar) keratosis but was subsequently diagnosed as a basal cell carcinoma (BCC). The diagnosis of BCC was helped pre-operatively by manipulation of the surrounding facial skin, which revealed the characteristic rolled edges and telangiectasis. Referral to his general medical practitioner (GP) resulted in surgical excision of the lesion. This procedure was performed inexpensively by the local GP as the lesion was not large and was in an accessible position. The lesion and the course of recovery over four weeks were documented photographically. The lesion was surgically excised and the diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma was confirmed by pathological examination. The wound healed well and the final cosmetic result was excellent. This patient illustrates the importance of careful observation and photo-documentation of suspicious skin lesions. A review of the treatment options for these lesions is included in this report.