Analysis of Surgically Treated Cutaneous Malignancies in a Tertiary Dermatology Center During a Six-Year Period

Background: Cutaneous malignancies are common in dermatologic practice. Due to their relation to sun exposure the characteristics of these malignancies can differ in various geographic locations. This study intends to determine the characteristics of surgically treated cutaneous malignancies and various surgical modalities that have been applied. Methods: This was a retrospective study of patients with cutaneous malignancies who underwent surgery over a six-year period. Data regarding the general information, type of malignancy, location, surgical margin involvement and specific surgical modalities were recorded and analyzed. Results:A total of 432 patients were included. Basal cell carcinoma was the most common malignancy (82.8%) followed by squamous cell carcinoma (13.4%). Lentigo maligna, keratoacanthoma, basosquamous carcinoma, sebaceous carcinoma and Bowen’s disease accounted for the minority of cases. Patientsʹ mean age was 65.7 years and the most common location was the nose and cheeks. The mean diameter was 2.97 cm. Excision was performed with safe margins. Incomplete excision was seen in 14% of basal cell and 15% of squamous cell carcinoma cases. The most common type of defect closure was a simple closure (43.9%). Conclusion: Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of cutaneous malignancy. Surgery yields a satisfactory response as treatment for this cutaneous malignancy.