[Primary basal cell carcinoma of the caruncle]

Abstract

Background: Primary basal cell carcinoma (BCC) of the caruncle is an extremely rare entity. Overall, only a few cases are described in the literature. With respect to the S2k guidelines on basal cell carcinoma of the skin, the eyelids, eyebrows and periorbital regions are regarded as zones with a high risk of recurrence. Due to its rarity hardly any data are available for primary BCC of the caruncle.

Methods: This article is based on a comprehensive literature review and a case presentation.

Results: In addition to a literature review this article reports the case of a 58-year-old male who presented at this department with a tumor of the caruncle. The histopathological examination revealed a BCC of the caruncle, which could be completely excised and showed no indications of recurrence in a follow-up period of 6 months.

Conclusion: Primary BCC of the caruncle must be considered as a differential diagnosis in the case of unclear caruncular tumors. Moreover, the current data indicate an increased risk of recurrence.

Keywords: Basalioma; Conjunctiva; Guidelines; Skin cancer; Tumor.