Basal Cell Carcinoma of the Nose

Abstract

The goal of this study was to determine the demographic features, clinical presentation and treatment of basal cell carcinomas of the nose. To this end, a retrospective chart review of 229 patients, who presented to the Toronto Sunnybrook Regional Cancer Centre between January 1990 and January 1993, was conducted. There were 229 malignancies in 229 consecutive patients. Sixty-six percent of the patients were female and the overall mean age was 70 years. The ala was the most common site followed by the tip, lateral nose, dorsum, alar groove, root and columella. There were no cases of metastases. One hundred and two patients were treated with surgery and 101 patients received radiotherapy. The remainder were treated with electrodessication and curettage. Various methods of reconstruction were used and are discussed. This study demonstrates the various presentations of basal cell carcinoma of the nose and the usefulness and roles of a multidisciplinary team in its assessment and treatment.