Diagnosis and treatment of basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma of the skin recommended by the Oncology Section of the Polish Dermatology Society as well as the Melanoma Academy Section of the Polish Society of Oncological Surgery

Abstract

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) as well as the squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) are the most frequent malignant neoplasms among Caucasian patients. Despite the fact, that they seldom metastasise and are not directly fatal, they constitute a significant clinical issue. Such cancers infiltrate surrounding tissues and destroy the surrounding structures, e.g., bones and cartilages. This results in such structures developing severe defects and significantly reduces the quality of life of the patients. Those with chronic immunosuppresion or a genetic predisposition to develop UV-induced skin cancer are at risk of dying, particularly if the cancer is aggressive. The Oncology Department of the Polish Dermatology Society (Polish: Sekcja Onkologiczna Polskiego Towarzystwa Dermatologicznego — PTD) as well as the Melanoma Academy Department of the Polish Society of Oncological Surgery (Polish: sekcja Akademia Czerniaka Polskiego Towarzystwa Chirurgii Onkologicznej — PTChO), basing on the current European guidelines, American recommendations of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (revision 1.2015) and interventional reviews of publications elaborated by the Cochrane Skin Group, attempted to systemise the diagnostic and therapeutic procedures and o determine rules for primary and secondary prevention in patients suspected/diagnosed with a basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma. The paper presents recommendations regarding diagnosis and treatment of skin cancers, taking all related benefits and challenges into consideration, as well as recommendations for post treatment patients monitoring.