Metastatic Basal Cell Carcinoma: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
2011
Metastatic Basal Cell Carcinoma: A Case Report and Review
publication
Evidence: low
Author Information
Author(s): Vu Anthony BS, Laub Donald Jr MD, FACS
Primary Institution: University of Vermont College of Medicine
Hypothesis
What is the metastatic risk of basal cell carcinoma?
Conclusion
The prognosis for patients with metastatic basal cell carcinoma is poor, with a mean survival time of only 8 months from diagnosis.
Supporting Evidence
- Basal cell carcinoma is the most common skin malignancy, affecting approximately 1 million Americans each year.
- Surgical excision is generally curative with high 5-year cure rates for primary tumors.
- The incidence of metastasis increases significantly with tumor size.
- Patients with metastatic disease have a mean survival time of only 8 months from diagnosis.
Takeaway
Basal cell carcinoma is a common skin cancer that can sometimes spread, and if it does, it can be very serious.
Limitations
There are currently no established guidelines for the treatment of metastatic disease due to dismal results from existing treatments.
Participant Demographics
The case involved a 52-year-old male patient.
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