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Pulmonary metastases from a basal cell carcinoma
Journal of Cutaneous Pathology
|June 1, 1981
Summary
Pulmonary metastases from basal cell carcinoma are rare. This case report details a 64-year-old man with metastatic basal cell carcinoma presenting as severe dyspnea, highlighting the aggressive potential of this skin cancer.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common skin malignancy.
- Pulmonary metastases from BCC are exceptionally rare, with fewer than 30 reported cases.
Observation:
- A 64-year-old male presented with severe dyspnea.
- He had a 12-year history of an untreated, ulcerating abdominal wall lesion.
- Histological examination confirmed the lesion as basal cell carcinoma.
Findings:
- Chest radiography revealed metastatic disease.
- Histology of the metastatic lesions matched the primary skin tumor.
- The patient's severe respiratory compromise precluded definitive treatment.
Implications:
- This case underscores the rare but severe metastatic potential of basal cell carcinoma.
- It highlights the importance of monitoring even seemingly benign skin lesions.
- Advanced BCC metastasis can lead to fatal respiratory failure.