Occult basal-cell carcinoma within rhinophyma

Rhinophyma, the end stage in the development of rosacea, is characterized by sebaceous hyperplasia, fibrosis, follicular plugging and telangiectasia. Although it is commonly considered a cosmetic problem, it can result in gross distortion of soft tissue and in airway obstruction. Previously, basal-cell carcinoma (BCC) has been reported in association with rhinophyma. We are reporting an additional case in which the patient had been delaying treatment because of the 'cosmetic nature' of this condition.