Early-onset basal cell carcinoma.
Enver Turan1, Nurdan Yurt, Yavuz Yeşilova
1Department of Dermatology, Harran University Faculty of Medicine, Şanlıurfa, Turkey. enverturan@gmail.com.
The Turkish Journal of Pediatrics
|November 13, 2013
Summary
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC), a common skin cancer, typically affects older adults on sun-exposed skin. This report details a rare case of BCC in an eight-year-old child lacking typical risk factors.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Oncology
- Pediatric Oncology
Background:
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most prevalent form of non-melanoma skin cancer, accounting for about 75% of cases.
- BCC predominantly affects fair-skinned individuals in sun-exposed areas, with incidence increasing with age and peaking in the seventh decade.
- While typically diagnosed in elderly populations, BCC can occur in younger individuals, including children.
Observation:
- This case study focuses on an eight-year-old child diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma.
- The child presented with no apparent predisposing characteristics typically associated with BCC development.
Findings:
- The diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma in a pediatric patient without risk factors is unusual.
- This case highlights the importance of considering BCC in pediatric differential diagnoses, even in the absence of typical risk factors.
Implications:
- This case underscores the need for vigilance in diagnosing skin cancers in children, irrespective of age-related risk factors.
- Further research may be warranted to explore potential genetic or environmental factors contributing to early-onset BCC.
- Early detection and management are crucial for favorable outcomes in pediatric BCC cases.
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