Abstract
Background: In the treatment of keratinocyte carcinoma, curettage alone has been described as a simpler, less expensive, and quicker method than electrodessication and curettage; however, there are limited studies examining recurrence rates for such lesions.
Objective: To investigate the 5-year recurrence rates of keratinocyte carcinoma treated with curettage alone and compare these results to previously reported recurrence rates for electrodessication and curettage.
Patients and methods: A retrospective cohort and interview study determined 5-year recurrence rates for 1,853 total lesions treated with curettage alone using chart review data and patient phone calls.
Results: This study yielded a per-protocol 5-year recurrence rate of 2.41% for BCCs, 4.52% for SCCs, and an average of 3.71% across both types of keratinocyte carcinoma. Lesions on the head and neck displayed a significantly greater recurrence rate of 7.18% when treated with curettage alone.
Conclusion: Curettage alone provides comparable efficacy in curing keratinocyte carcinoma when compared with electrodessication and curettage.
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