Basal cell carcinoma in photo exposed areas: clinical experience and versatility of local flaps in five cases

Abstract

Introduction: Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer and is characterized by slow growth but a high potential for local destruction, with rare metastases. Diagnosis is clinical with histopathological confirmation, complemented by imaging techniques to define the extent of the disease and guide surgical planning. After resection, the choice of reconstructive method depends on the anatomical site, histological variant, and tumor size. Surgical margins should be adjusted to the diameter of the lesion to minimize recurrence. Clinical Cases: This series describes five clinical cases with different morphological variants, locations, and histories of sun exposure, highlighting the favorable postoperative course and the usefulness of local flaps as an effective reconstructive alternative. Discussion: A consistent association was observed between chronic sun exposure, fair skin type, and the appearance of slow-growing primary lesions, reaffirming the role of ultraviolet radiation as the primary determinant of their development. The approach based on histopathological confirmation and surgical resection with adequate safety margins proved effective, resulting in clear margins and the absence of tumor recurrence within the established follow-up period.