# Case Report: Basaloid squamous cell carcinoma

## TL;DR

This case report describes a rare type of cancer called basaloid squamous cell carcinoma found in a 70-year-old man's tongue, highlighting its unique features and diagnostic challenges.

## Contribution

The paper contributes a new clinical case of BSCC emphasizing the importance of histopathology and immunohistochemistry for accurate diagnosis.

## Key findings

- BSCC is a rare cancer with a worse prognosis than conventional SCC.
- BSCC is characterized by a dimorphic histopathological pattern.
- Accurate diagnosis of BSCC requires histopathology and immunohistochemistry.

## Abstract

The upper aerodigestive tract is where basaloid squamous cell carcinoma (BSCC), a rare variation of conventional SCC, is most frequently found. The hypopharynx, tonsil, supraglottic larynx, tongue (base), and head-neck regions are particularly susceptible to BSCC. Clinically, the presentation of BSCC is similar to that of conventional SCC, but it has a poorer prognosis than traditional SCC. BSCC is distinguished histopathologically by a dimorphic pattern, a distinctive basal cell component paired with a squamous component, and a squamous component. However, its similar features to conventional SCC make 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.