[Non-surgical therapy of basal cell carcinoma of the head-neck region]

Abstract

Basal cell carcinoma is a semi-malignant epithelial skin tumour with a locally destructive growth pattern but a very low tendency to metastases. Basal cell carcinoma represent the most frequent malignant cutaneous tumour worldwide in white population with a lifetime risk of 30 % and still increasing incidence. Lifetime cumulative UV-exposure, as well as frequent sunburns are the most common exogeneous risk factors, others are ionising radiation, exposure to chemical carcinogens, genetic predisposition, and chronic immunosuppression. Basal cell carcinoma are predominantly located in the central region of the face. The characteristic clinical feature is a single nodule with multiple teleangiectasia, as well as an irregular shaped ulceration with and elevated border. The very rarely observed occurrence of metastases seems to be a result of insufficient therapy or a metatypic basal cell carcinoma type. Therapy of first choice of basal cell carcinoma is the complete, micrographically controlled excision. In addition, radiotherapy, topical immunotherapy with Imiquimod or photodynamic therapy may be considered as therapeutic alternatives in selected cases.