Is it possible to get basal cell carcinoma inside your nostril?

Question

Hi, I have a small ish 7mm x 4mm white patch on the top of my nose near the tip, derm says she thinks its nothing. Later I notice inside my nose in the top of the tip, I have a open type sore that bleeds... I've treated it with naseptin from the doctor, it seems to heal then come back (not gone in 6 months). Im worried this is a type of BCC as its not healing, bleeding and seems directly below my white patch. Ive read its common to have two instances of it. Is it possible to have it inside?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our office treats basal cell carcinomas and we have seen them in both sun exposed and non sun exposed areas of the body. Best, Dr. Karamanoukian

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

I have not seen basal cell carcinoma inside the nostril. If you have a non-healing wound inside your nose, you should seek a consultation with an ENT. An in office biopsy can be performed with local anesthesia and can rule out any more serious issues. I hope this information is helpful for you.Stephen Weber MD, FACSDenver Facial Plastic Surgeon

Keith Llewellyn, MD · Answer

Yes, It is possible to have a basal cell carcinoma inside the nostril but is rather uncommon.

Felix Bopp, MD · Answer

Yes it is possible to have Basal Cell, Squamous Cell, and/or Melanoma's develop inside the nose. My best suggestion would be to have either a dermatologist or ENT do a small biopsy of the site to determine exactly what you have. Then you can make an informed decision on how to proceed if something else needs to be done.

Amy Y. Paul, DO, FAAD · Answer

Yes, it is possible to develop basal cell carcinoma on any skin even it is not a commonly sun-damaged area. I have had patients with BCC in unlikely areas such as the armpit and inguinal crease. Please see your dermatologist so they can determine if you need a biopsy.  If the area is hard to visualize or reach, they may have you see an ENT doctor.  Good luck!

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

Yes, it is possible. Whether your derm or ENT wants to perform the biopsy would be up to them, but it is possible to have a BCC in an area like this. "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."

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Is it possible to get basal cell carcinoma inside your nostril?

Answers (6)

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