Background
Basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) are common, and are regularly
diagnosed and managed by Australian general practitioners.
Objective
This article summarises the types, clinical features, treatment
and follow up of BCCs. Two cases histories are also presented
that highlight the difficulties with diagnosing and treating
aggressive BCC.
Discussion
Aggressive BCCs can invade widely before exhibiting obvious
clinical signs. Suspicious skin lesions should have an adequate
biopsy taken to guide management options. Complete BCC
excision is usually the best treatment, but particular care should
be taken when treating lesions on cosmetically or functionally
sensitive areas. Recurrent disease can also be difficult and
disfiguring to treat. Specialist involvement will be needed for the
management of some BCCs. Basal cell carcinomas can recur
years after treatment. Regular skin checks are important for high
risk patients.
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