RECURRENT BASAL-CELL CARCINOMA TREATED WITH CRYOSURGERY

Background: Although there are reports of cure rates achieved by cryos urgery for primary basal cell carcinomas (BCCs), there are few data on the cryosurgical treatment of recurrent BCCs. Objective: Our purpose was to discuss case selection, cryosurgical management, and results of therapy. Methods: Cryosurgery was performed in 54 patients with 56 re current BCCs. The treatment consisted of aggressive freezing including an adequate margin of surrounding tissue. Results: Wound healing was favorable and the cosmetic results were excellent. Two recurrences wer e found and were referred for Mohs micrographic surgery. Conclusion: W e conclude that cryosurgical treatment of selected recurrent BCCs yiel ds results that compare favorably with ether methods of treatment.