A 72 year old Caucasian male presents in your Primary Care practice for a “bump” on his nose. He noticed it several months ago but did not seek medical attention since it did not hurt or was not itchy.

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A 72 year old Caucasian male presents in your Primary Care practice for a “bump” on his nose. He noticed it several months ago but did not seek medical attention since it did not hurt or was not itchy.

Based on the patient’s presentation of a non-painful, non-itchy bump on the nose that has been present for several months, several differential diagnoses should be considered. The most common considerations in this context include:

  1. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC):
    • Most common type of skin cancer, particularly in older adults and individuals with fair skin.
    • Typically presents as a pearly or waxy bump, often with visible blood vessels.
    • May have a central depression or ulceration.
  2. Sebaceous Hyperplasia:
    • Enlarged oil glands that present as small, yellowish bumps, often with a central dimple.
    • Common in older adults, particularly on the face.
  3. Actinic Keratosis (AK):
    • Precancerous lesion caused by sun exposure.
    • Appears as a rough, scaly patch that can be skin-colored, red, or brown.
    • Often found on sun-exposed areas like the face, ears, and hands.
  4. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC):
    • Second most common type of skin cancer.
    • May present as a firm, red nodule or a flat lesion with a scaly, crusted surface.
    • Can develop from actinic keratoses.
  5. Seborrheic Keratosis:
    • Non-cancerous growths that appear as brown, black, or light tan lesions with a waxy, scaly, slightly elevated appearance.
    • Often described as “stuck-on” looking.
  6. Melanoma:
    • Less common but more dangerous type of skin cancer.
    • May present as a new mole or an existing mole that changes in size, shape, or color.
    • Can appear as a dark, irregularly shaped lesion.

Given the patient’s age, skin type, and the chronic nature of the lesion, basal cell carcinoma is a leading concern. However, a thorough clinical examination is necessary to narrow down the diagnosis.

Next Steps in Evaluation:

  1. Detailed History and Physical Examination:
    • Duration and progression of the lesion.
    • Any changes in size, color, or texture.
    • Presence of bleeding, crusting, or ulceration.
    • History of sun exposure, tanning bed use, or prior skin cancers.
    • Any other similar lesions elsewhere on the body.
  2. Dermatoscopy:
    • Use a dermatoscope to examine the lesion more closely. This tool can help differentiate between benign and malignant lesions.
  3. Skin Biopsy:
    • If malignancy is suspected, a biopsy (e.g., shave, punch, or excisional) is necessary to obtain a definitive diagnosis.
    • Pathological examination will guide further management.

Management:

  • If the lesion is benign, management may include reassurance, monitoring, or removal if desired for cosmetic reasons.
  • If malignancy is confirmed, treatment options may include surgical excision, Mohs surgery, cryotherapy, or topical treatments, depending on the type and extent of the cancer.

Referral to a dermatologist is advisable for further evaluation and management, particularly if there is suspicion of skin cancer.

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