Multiple Foci of Basal Cell Carcinoma Arising in Rhinophyma: A Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

Rhinophyma is a benign condition caused by the excessive growth of sebaceous glands in the nasal tissue, presenting with symptoms such as nasal hypertrophy, erythema, and papules. Cases of basal cell carcinoma in rhinophyma have been reported in literature, but its etiological role remains unclear. It is uncertain whether rhinophyma is predisposed to neoplasm development or if their coexistence is coincidental. We conducted a literature survey to identify such cases reported over the years. We identified 22 studies reporting a total of 47 cases in the literature, all involving male patients. The most common pattern of occurrence was the rapid growth of a nodular formation within the context of rhinophyma. The elucidation of the association between basal cell carcinoma and rhinophyma remains challenging. The presence of multiple foci supports the theory that rhinophyma may play a role in their development, but larger studies are needed to establish a causal relationship.