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Colonization of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) by melanoma cells is a unique and uncommonly reported cutaneous entity. We describe a bluish nodule on the left forearm found during routine skin cancer surveillance examination with suspicious dermatoscopic findings including central-blue-white veil, sparse atypical dots, and a surrounding pink vascular blush with focal irregular tan-brown pigmentation at the periphery. Histopathology demonstrated a pigmented BCC with an overlying and adjacent melanoma in situ (MIS), as well as colonization of the BCC nodule by melanoma cells. We performed a review of the literature on the topic and discuss other presentations of cutaneous neoplasms composed of both BCC and melanoma, including collision, combined, and biphenotypic tumors. The prognostic and management challenges inherent to this distinctive neoplasm are summarized.

Ultraviolet radiation plays a major role in the development of nonmelanoma and melanoma skin cancers. Photoprotection by sunscreens has been shown to prevent the development of actinic keratosis, squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma, and photoaging. However, these benefits are only derived if the users apply sunscreen appropriately and practice other sun protection measures. This review discusses the health benefits provided by sunscreen use, updates the latest regulatory landscape on sunscreen, and addresses the controversies and limitations associated with sunscreen use., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)