Basal Cell Carcinoma with Delayed Lung Metastasis: A Case Report

Abstract

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common skin cancer in Taiwan. The incidence is increasing because of the much higher exposure to ultraviolet radiation worldwide in recent years. Primary basal cell carcinoma can usually be well-excised and the prognosis is typically favorable. Distant metastasis occasionally occurs; only about 268 cases have been reported between 1894 and September 2004. We report a case of basal cell carcinoma of the perianal area and the status post-complete surgical excision with lung metastasis 19 years later. Chest radiography and chest computed tomography (CT) showed diffuse multiple cavitary nodules of the bilateral lung fields. The diagnosis was confirmed via CT-guided biopsy. Although basal cell carcinoma is relatively benign compared with other skin cancers, the possibility of delayed recurrence or distant metastasis should be considered.