As the most common form of skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is typified by locally infiltrative growth and a very low risk of metastasis. On occasion, however, this otherwise indolent neoplasm may behave aggressively, demonstrating deep tissue invasion and a high rate of postsurgical recurrence. The pathogenesis and determinants of such tenacious growth are not completely understood. Only 1% of all BCC's achieve the status of 'giant', as defined in 1988 by the American Joint Committee on Cancer. In this article, the authors provide a comprehensive review of the scientific literature on giant basal cell carcinoma (GBCC) of the skin and report their experience with this rare tumour subtype.

Glyphosate (N-[phosphonomethyl]glycine) is a nonselective herbicide used in agriculture as a foliage spray for the control and the destruction of herbaceous plants. Adverse skin reactions due to contact with this compound have been rarely described. We report a case of a 78-year-old woman presenting with extensive chemical burns on her trunk and legs caused by accidental contact with a glyphosate-surfactant formulation. The lesions healed in four weeks without scarring.

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common tumor of skin. Its incidence increases with age, although it is relatively infrequent under the age of 50 years, and its occurrence in childhood is exceedingly rare. This article describes an otherwise typical basal cell carcinoma arising in young patient, with emphasis on histologic diagnosis.

The authors have indicated no significant interest with commercial supporters.

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