Basal Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck Region in Ethnic Chinese

Abstract EN

Objectives.

This study aims to report our experience in the management of HNBCC in ethnic Chinese over a 10-year period.

Methods.

A retrospective review of all ethnic Chinese patients with HNBCC treated in a tertiary centre from 1999 to 2009.

Results.

From 1999 to 2009, 225 patients underwent surgical excision for HNBCC.

Majority were elderly female patients.

Commonest presentation was a pigmented (76.2%) ulcer (64.8%) over the nose (31.6%).

Median skin margin taken on tumour excision was 2.0 mm; primary skin closure was achieved in 51.8%.

Postresection skin margin was clear in 75.4%.

Of those with inadequate skin margins, 56.7% opted for further treatment, 43.4% for observation.

Recurrence rates were 2.6% and 13.8%, respectively (P=0.106).

Overall recurrence rate was 5.5%.

Conclusions.

HNBCC commonly presented as pigmented ulcers over the nose of elderly female patients in our locality.

Adequate tumour excision ± reconstruction offered the best chance of cure.

Reexcision of those with inadequate skin margins improved local tumour control.