Misdiagnosis of lip squamous cell carcinoma

Abstract

Lip squamous cell carcinoma is a malignant lesion of aggressive behavior, which must be recognized by health professionals to prevent damage to patient’s health. Objective: To present incisional biopsy importance as an effective clinical approach for the diagnosis of lip squamous cell carcinoma and actinic cheilitis malignancy as well as the professional’s lack of knowledge on these two diseases. Case report: The patient was under medical treatment due to be positive for human immunodeficiency virus and because of the actinic cheilitis on lower lip. Because the patient did not observe the labial lesion regression, he searched for the School of Dentistry of the University Center of the Educational Foundation of Barretos, where he underwent biopsy. This procedure confirmed the diagnosis of lip squamous cell carcinoma. The patient was referred for treatment in a specialized cancer center and has been living with the cancer consequences. Conclusion: The physician and dentist must be aware of the main clinical features of lip squamous cell carcinoma so that they can establish its correct diagnosis and early treatment.