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Pigmented Basal Cell Carcinoma Masquerading as a Melanoma
1Internal Medicine, Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center, Oakland, USA.
Cureus
|June 14, 2019
Summary
Pigmented basal cell carcinoma can mimic melanoma, especially in individuals with darker skin. Early biopsy is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of this uncommon skin cancer.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Oncology
Background:
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most prevalent form of skin cancer.
- Pigmented basal cell carcinoma (PBCC) presents as an uncommon clinical variant that can be mistaken for melanoma.
Observation:
- This study details three cases of Hispanic patients (aged 63-77) with pigmented lesions initially suspected to be melanoma.
- One patient presented with a collision tumor, a combination of PBCC and seborrheic keratosis.
Findings:
- All three cases were diagnosed as pigmented basal cell carcinoma.
- All patients underwent successful tumor removal via Mohs micrographic surgery, with no reported recurrence.
Implications:
- The differential diagnosis for black skin lesions, particularly in patients with darker skin types, must include pigmented basal cell carcinoma.
- Biopsy is essential for distinguishing PBCC from melanoma and ensuring appropriate patient management.
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