Basaloid squamous cell carcinoma of the maxilla: Report of a case and literature review

Am J Otolaryngol. 2015 May-Jun;36(3):402-7. doi: 10.1016/j.amjoto.2015.01.015. Epub 2015 Jan 30.

Abstract

Purpose: Basaloid squamous cell carcinoma (BSCC) is a rare variant of squamous cell carcinoma characterized by a highly aggressive clinical course. Though typically found in the larynx, oropharynx, and hypopharynx, we report a rare case of BSCC originating in the maxillary sinus in an otherwise healthy 32-year-old male.

Materials and methods: Single case report of a patient with BSCC of the maxillary sinus and retrospective chart review of all cases of BSCC of the maxilla at a single academic institution between January 1, 1986 and December 31, 2013. The MEDLINE database was additionally queried for all case series or reports of BSCC arising in the maxilla, and pertinent clinical data were extracted.

Results: The clinical presentation, disease course, and management of a patient with BSCC of the maxilla are presented. In this recent case, the patient presented with persistent alveolar pain and a nonhealing tooth infection. Radiographic studies demonstrated a large necrotic mass in the left maxillary sinus that was biopsy-proven as BSCC. The patient underwent surgical resection followed by postoperative radiation without complications.

Conclusions: BSCC of the maxilla is a rare oncologic entity that may progress to late disease stage without obvious clinical signs or symptoms. Optimal treatment involves complete surgical resection followed by postoperative.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / diagnosis*
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Maxillary Sinus Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Maxillary Sinus Neoplasms / therapy*