Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Surgical Oncology
• Head and Neck Surgery

Background:

• Nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSCs) frequently affect the head and neck.
• While rarely fatal, NMSCs can cause significant local morbidity.
• Tumor extirpation and reconstruction present unique challenges in this region.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review common NMSCs in the head and neck.
• To emphasize the importance of complete tumor extirpation with negative margins.
• To discuss the balance between oncologic principles and reconstructive outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of common NMSCs in the head and neck.
• Discussion of surgical management principles.
• Emphasis on achieving pathologically confirmed negative margins.

Main Results:

• Complete tumor extirpation with negative margins is the standard of care.
• Local morbidity from tumors and surgery is a significant concern.
• Metastases are rare but require appropriate management.

Conclusions:

• Prioritizing oncologic principles in NMSC management is paramount.
• Reconstructive surgery should follow successful oncologic treatment.
• Careful surgical planning is essential for optimal patient outcomes.