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Recurrent basal cell carcinoma treated with radiation therapy
R B Wilder1, D S Shimm, J M Kittelson
1Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson.
Archives of Dermatology
|November 1, 1991
Summary
Radiation therapy effectively treats recurrent basal cell carcinomas, with higher remission rates for smaller tumors and earlier stages. This study highlights radiation
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Radiation Oncology
Background:
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer.
- Recurrent BCC poses treatment challenges.
- Radiation therapy is a potential treatment modality for recurrent BCC.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of radiation therapy for recurrent basal cell carcinomas.
- To identify factors influencing complete remission rates in patients treated with radiation.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 61 patients with recurrent BCC treated with radiation therapy (1974-1990).
- Tumors staged using the American Joint Committee on Cancer system.
- Kaplan-Meier methods and Cox Proportional Hazards Model used to analyze remission rates and influencing factors.
Main Results:
- Tumor size and stage significantly impacted 5-year complete remission rates.
- 5-year complete remission rates were 96% for tumors ≤1.0 cm vs. 81% for tumors >1.0 cm.
- 5-year complete remission rates were 93% for stage I/II tumors vs. 42% for stage III/IV tumors.
Conclusions:
- Radiation therapy is an effective treatment for recurrent basal cell carcinomas.
- Tumor size and stage are critical prognostic factors for radiation therapy outcomes.
- Good to excellent functional and cosmetic results were observed, with low rates of complications.