[Management of basal cell carcinomas with positive margins]

A common problem in day-to-day practice is the approach to take following resection of basal cell carcinoma with positive margins. In such cases, it is important to decide whether we should take a wait-and-see approach or consider re-excision or radiotherapy. To make this decision, 4 key points need to be clarified: the significance of positive margins; whether positive margins are equivalent to tumor persistence; whether negative margins equate with complete excision; and the rate of recurrence in cases of re-excision compared in those in which a wait and see approach is taken. Having addressed each of these points, the approach will depend on the characteristics of the individual case. Based on the evidence presented, an aggressive approach involving re-excision would seem indicated in aggressive cases, whereas a flexible strategy combining observation, surgery, and radiotherapy (or other treatments) can be used in less aggressive cases.