Oculocutaneous Albinism and Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Skin of the Head and Neck in Sub-Saharan Africa

Figure 1

Squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) in a 38-year-old HIV-seropositive Black albino woman. (a) SCC of the nose, cheeks and the lips, and (b) the labial mucosa and anterior part of the palate. The disease started as a small ulcer on the upper lip 18 months previously, progressing rapidly to involve the mouth and to destroy the lower face. (c) SCC of the left ear and temple started 8 months previously. (d) Panoramic radiograph showing destruction of the anterior maxilla. Histopathologically, the carcinoma was poorly differentiated. The patient died before investigation for metastases could be done. The extensive and striking sunlight-induced malignant facial damage is tragic evidence of the consequence of lack of sun-protection from an early age and of appropriate early medical care.

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