Case Report: Basaloid Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Tongue: A Case Report

F1000Res. 2024 Mar 26:12:1008. doi: 10.12688/f1000research.134826.2. eCollection 2023.

Abstract

Basaloid squamous cell carcinoma (BSCC) is a rare variant of conventional squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) frequently affecting the upper aerodigestive tract. The hypopharynx, tonsil, supraglottic larynx, tongue (base), and head-neck regions are particularly susceptible to BSCC. Clinically, the presentation of BSCC and conventional SCC is similar, but BSCC has a poorer prognosis. BSCC is distinguished histopathologically by a dimorphic pattern, a distinctive basal cell component paired with a squamous component. However, its similar features to conventional SCC makes it difficult to diagnose. Therefore, histopathology and immunohistochemistry play a crucial role in diagnosing such tumors. Here we present the case of a 70-year-old male diagnosed with BSCC involving the tongue.

Keywords: Basaloid squamous cell carcinoma; basaloid cells; comedo necrosis ​​; dimorphic pattern.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Carcinoma, Basosquamous* / pathology
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell* / diagnosis
  • Humans
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Male
  • Tongue

Grants and funding

The author(s) declared that no grants were involved in supporting this work.