Invasion of parotid gland by basal cell carcinoma: implications for therapy

A review of 1,146 cases of basal cell carcinoma of the head and neck revealed that twelve (1.05%) involved the parotid gland by direct extension. The male to female ratio was 5:1 and the average age was 70.1 years. Tumor size, site of origin, and duration prior to treatment were factors influencing secondary parotid involvement by these neoplasms. Mohs micrographic surgery was found to be an effective method of treatment with a high cure rate.