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Updated: Jul 4, 2026
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Cell Population Analyses During Skin Carcinogenesis
Published on: August 21, 2013
Sequential treatment of giant basal cell carcinomas
V Madan1, C A West, J V Murphy
1Central Manchester and Manchester Childrens' Hospital NHS Trust, Manchester, UK. vishalmadan@doctors.net.uk
Summary
Giant basal cell carcinomas (GBCC) present unique treatment challenges. Combining Metvix photodynamic therapy with topical imiquimod before surgical excision effectively reduced tumor size in three patients.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Oncology
Background:
- Giant basal cell carcinomas (GBCC) are challenging to treat with standard methods.
- Conventional treatments for smaller basal cell carcinomas (BCC) are often ineffective or impractical for GBCC.
- Surgical excision of GBCC can lead to significant patient morbidity.
Observation:
- The study explored a novel sequential treatment approach for GBCC.
- Three patients with histologically confirmed GBCC were treated.
- The regimen involved three cycles of Metvix photodynamic therapy followed by topical imiquimod.
Findings:
- This combined therapy resulted in a notable reduction in GBCC size.
- The sequential treatment facilitated subsequent surgical excision of the lesions.
Implications:
- This neoadjuvant approach may offer a viable strategy for managing large BCC.
- Combining therapies could potentially minimize surgical morbidity associated with GBCC.
- Further research is warranted to validate this treatment combination for GBCC.
