Importance of hereditary factors in synchronous development of Basal cell carcinoma in two albino brothers: case report

Abstract

Oculocutaneous albinism is an autosomal recessive disease associated with hypomelanosis of the skin, hair, and eyes. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common malignant neoplasm in this group. Those affected in the tropical populations have higher rates of metastatic lesions. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common human cancer. Its incidence is steadily increasing. The etiology of BCC of the skin is characterized by a complex interaction of environmental, genetic, and lifestyle factors. The results of family and genetic studies provide support for the role of genetic factors in BCC, but most cases of BCC of the skin appear to be sporadic, and possible gene-environment interactions remain unknown. We have reported 2 brothers who have albinism and synchronous developed BCC on their trunk region. Unlike most of the albino patients, our cases have BCC instead of squamous cell carcinoma. Development of the same malignancy in the same life period at the similar localizations reminds the importance of genetic predisposition.