Radiotherapy of recurrent basal and squamous cell skin carcinomas: A study of 249 re-treated carcinomas in 229 patients

It is of great practical utility to assess which is the best therapeutic choice in the management of basal and squamous cell skin carcinomas recurring after diferent treatments (RBSCSC). To this aim, we have performed a retrospective review of 249 recurrent lesions in 229 patients treated with dermatological radiotherapy in the period 1982-1999. The total doses of ionizing radiations administered ranged from 45 to 70 Gy, with different dose frationations, according to the technique employed. The five-year cure-rate was 83.62%. Cosmetic results were evaluated as "good" or "acceptable" in 92.62% of the treated lesions in complete remission. So far no complications or sequelae to the radiological treatment have been observed. Our results suggest two considerations about the choice in the treatment of RBSCSC (following non radiological therapies): 1. radiotherapy is a safe treatment and the most effective after Mohs surgery; 2. radiotherapy is a first-line treatment in those patients who cannot undergo extensive surgery for a variety of different reasons (age, general health conditions, etc.).