To compare the cost and margin adequacy of Mohs micrographic surgery (Mohs) and traditional surgical excision (TSE) for the treatment of facial and auricular nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC).Design: Prospective cost analysis with each patient serving as his or her own control.Setting: Study was performed from 1999 to 2001 at the University of Connecticut dermatology clinic, a tertiary care referral center.Patients: A total of 98 consecutive patients with a primary diagnosis of NMSC on the face and ears. Main Outcome Measures:The average cost of Mohs and TSE per patient for the treatment and repair of NMSC; adequacy of TSE margins after the initial procedure (because this outcome affects overall cost).Results: Mohs was cost comparable to TSE when the subsequent procedure for inadequate TSE margins after permanent section was Mohs

Delivery of exogenous antioxidants in combination appears to be a more successful strategy for enhancing the cutaneous antioxidant system than the administration of isolated antioxidants alone. Vitamin D analogs may have a role in the medical therapy of melanoma. However, avoiding exposure to ultraviolet light appears to be the only true panacea against the development of melanoma and NMSC.

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Erythroderma can be caused by a variety of underlying dermatoses, infections, and systemic diseases. Many of the findings on history, physical examination, and laboratory evaluation are nondiagnostic. Distinctive clinical and laboratory features pointing to a specific disease may be evident, however. Conclusive clinicopathologic correlation may require multiple and repeated skin biopsies. The prognosis of erythroderma has improved with the advent of innovative dermatologic therapies (e.g., cyclosporine and synthetic retinoids) and advances in the management of systemic manifestations. Death from sepsis, cardiac failure, adult respiratory distress syndrome, and capillary leak syndrome continue to be rarely reported. A high index of suspicion for these complications must be maintained to facilitate early medical intervention.