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Basal cell carcinoma in young adults
1Department of Dermatology, Cumberland Infirmary, Carlisle, U.K.
The British Journal of Dermatology
|July 1, 1992
Summary
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is uncommon in young adults but can recur or appear as multiple tumors. Careful follow-up is recommended for young patients diagnosed with this skin cancer.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Oncology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is typically diagnosed in older adults.
- Data on BCC incidence and outcomes in young adults (15-34 years) is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the epidemiology and outcomes of BCC in young adults.
- To determine the frequency of recurrence and multiple primary tumors in this demographic.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of Northern Region Cancer Registry data (1979-1989).
- Inclusion of 150 patients aged 15-34 years.
- Follow-up data from patient records and family doctors for 39 patients with completed 5-year follow-up.
Main Results:
- BCC incidence was constant across age groups, with 1.2% of patients aged 15-34 years.
- 21% of young adults experienced incomplete excision, local recurrence, metastasis, or subsequent primary tumors within 5 years.
- A median pre-diagnosis duration of 3 years was observed.
Conclusions:
- BCC in young adults may be underdiagnosed due to its rarity.
- The high rate of recurrence and multiple primary tumors necessitates vigilant follow-up for young BCC patients.