Recurrent basal cell carcinoma treated with cryosurgery.

Abstract

Although there are reports of cure rates achieved by cryosurgery for primary basal cell carcinomas (BCCs), there are few data on the cryosurgical treatment of recurrent BCCs. Our purpose was to discuss case selection, cryosurgical management, and results of therapy. Cryosurgery was performed in 54 patients with 56 recurrent BCCs. The treatment consisted of aggressive freezing including an adequate margin of surrounding tissue. Wound healing was favorable and the cosmetic results were excellent. Two recurrences were found and were referred for Mohs micrographic surgery. We conclude that cryosurgical treatment of selected recurrent BCCs yields results that compare favorably with other methods of treatment.