Growth of periocular basal cell carcinomas

Abstract

Periocular basal cell carcinomas can grow rapidly, and many have aggressive histological subtypes. Rapid growth is more likely in recurrent tumours, larger tumours and in men.

Incidence of eyelid basal cell carcinoma in England: 2000–2010

“…It has, however, long been recognised that following one cancer there is a higher risk of developing a second 23–25. This is combined with reports that younger patients who have suffered a cancer are more likely to have more than one tumour and often more aggressive disease 11. It does not help resource planning if these patient groups are under-represented, especially as there is worrying evidence to suggest increased incidence in younger population groups 5 9…”

“…However, due to the highly visible location of facial BCCs, they can cause significant facial disfigurement and impact on patients' psychological welfare resulting in significant morbidity10 and thus significant health service input 10. Although BCCs in other parts of the body may be deemed as ‘low risk’, such tumours in the periocular region require careful management to prevent localised spread to vital adjacent structures, including the nose, maxilla, sinuses, brain, orbit and eye 11 12. This requires expert management as is offered by oculoplastic surgeons, as part of a multidisciplinary team.…”

Recurrence of periocular basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma after Mohs micrographic surgery: a retrospective cohort study

“…Morbidity of periocular KCs can be significant due to the close proximity and possible spread to functional (peri)ocular structures such as the eyelid, lacrimal duct or intraorbital structures. Additionally, compared with other locations, periocular BCCs may grow more rapidly . Periocular KCs are usually treated surgically, but preferably with limited excision margins due to the sensitivity of this area.…”

Growth of periocular basal cell carcinoma

“…Traditionally it has been stated that BCCs grow slowly, yet clinically we have all seen BCCs with surprisingly fast growth rates. Although the study by Tan et al . in this issue of BJD , examined only periocular tumours, the growth rate was unexpectedly fast.…”