Question:

A punch biopsy of the labia majora was diagnosed as basal cell carcinoma. Given that basal cell carcinoma rarely occurs in this area, is there any other skin condition that could possible be misdiagnosed as basal cell carcinoma?

Answer:

I agree that the location is odd for a basal cell carcinoma. However, diagnosing basal cell carcinomas under the microscope is quite easy for those who are appropriately trained. I would recommend making sure that a board certified DERMATOPATHOLOGIST has reviewed your slides and that that person knows the anatomical location. A dermatopathologist is someone who has done a residency in dermatology or pathology followed by a fellowship in dermatopathology.

Related Resources:

Subspecialty certification in Dermatopathology – American Board of Dermatology, Inc.

For more information:

Go to the Skin Cancer health topic.