Is it BCC inside my nose now or squamous cell?

Question

There is a sore at the entrance of one nostril. It is in the little valley at the nose entrance. Hair grows a bit in there and this sore is very sore and is very crusty. Above and to the right of that in the nostril is a patch of lightly rough tissue about 1 & 1/4 inches long and about the same wide that comes off easily and sometimes bleeds when I clean out my nose.

Daniel Berg, MD · Answer

It is important to rule out a skin cancer in any case where there is a non-healing sore.  Both basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas can present at the entrance of the nostril and squamous cell carcinoma can arise deeper into the nose.The best way to investigate this would be to get an asssessment by an experienced dermatologist or head and neck surgeon (Ear, Nose and Throat Surgeon).  They can examine you, look at the spot and perform a biopsy if needed.

John Louis Ratz, MD · Answer

Skin cancers are usually painless, so this may not be malignant. If it is malignant, it's most likely a basal cell carcinoma. I strongly suggest that you see a fellowship-trained Mohs Surgeon for a biopsy. Because of insurance standards, a biopsy is required to prove this is malignant before surgery can be performed.

F. Victor Rueckl, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

The nose is a site that often has BCC and SCCs occur. It is impossible to guess what is happening and you need to see a doctor. He or she will perform a biopsy so that proper diagnosis can occur. At that point you will be able to assess the situation and agree on a path for treatment. Don't guess what it is and don't put off seeing a doctor. This is not going to go away and get better - especially not if it is a BCC or SCC. Even though those are slow growing in most cases, they are still cancers on the body and need to be treated properly. "This answer has been solicited without seeing this patient and cannot be held as true medical advice, but only opinion. Seek in-person treatment with a trained medical professional for appropriate care."

Is it BCC inside my nose now or squamous cell?

Answers (3)

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