Title : A snapshot of basal cell carcinoma cases treated at the great western hospital: Insights from the wiltshire population
Abstract:
Introduction: Basal cell carcinomas (BCC) are the most common skin cancer, accounting for 80% of cases. This study provides a snapshot of BCCs managed in the OMFS department at the Great Western Hospital (GWH) in Swindon, analysing patient demographics, lesion locations, and histopathological features to contribute to understanding regional trends in the Wiltshire population.
Methods: A retrospective review of 92 patients undergoing excision of confirmed BCCs from March 2023 to September 2024 was conducted. Data on age, gender, lesion location, and histopathology were collected for 96 lesions, representing a subset of BCC cases within Wiltshire.
Results: BCCs were more common in males (61%), with most patients in their 70s (n=31) and 80s (n=35). Nodular BCCs were the most frequent subtype (41%), and basosquamous BCCs were rare (1%). The nose (22%) and cheek (18%) were the most affected sites. According to British Association of Dermatology guidelines, 76 of the 96 lesions were classified as high-risk. TNM staging showed 94% as pT1, 4% as pT2, and 2% as pT3.
Conclusions: This evaluation offers insight into BCC cases treated in the OMFS department at GWH, reflecting patterns in a subset of the Wiltshire population. While findings align with national trends, the high prevalence of facial lesions highlights the importance of targeted prevention and timely intervention. These insights inform local service delivery and management strategies for high-risk groups.
