Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Global Open (Mar 2014)

Neglected Giant Scalp Basal Cell Carcinoma

  • Anne Kristine Larsen, MD,
  • Waseem-Asim Ghulam El-Charnoubi, MD,
  • Julie Gehl, MD, PhD,
  • Christen Krag, MD, PhD

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1097/gox.0000000000000066
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 2, no. 3
p. e120

Abstract

Read online

Summary: Rarely, basal cell carcinoma grows to a giant size, invading the underlying deep tissue and complicating the treatment and reconstruction modalities. A giant basal cell carcinoma on the scalp is in some cases treated with a combination of surgery and radiation therapy, resulting in local control, a satisfactory long-term cosmetic and functional result. We present a case with a neglected basal cell scalp carcinoma, treated with wide excision and postoperative radiotherapy, reconstructed with a free latissimus dorsi flap. The cosmetic result is acceptable and there is no sign of recurrence 1 year postoperatively.