Treatment of Malignant Skin Lesions

Initial Assessment and Diagnosis

The British Journal of Cancer recommends that a biopsy confirming malignancy is the correct first step in management for a patient with a malignant skin lesion 3
The British Journal of Dermatology suggests that further treatment decisions should be based on the specific type of malignancy and its characteristics 1

The British Journal of Dermatology recommends surgical excision with margins determined by Breslow thickness for melanoma treatment, with specific margin guidelines for different thicknesses 1
The British Journal of Dermatology suggests that complete excision with clear histological margins is essential for lentigo maligna melanoma, with a higher risk of recurrence due to the "field effect" 5
The British Journal of Dermatology recommends surgical excision as the gold standard treatment for basal cell carcinoma 6
The British Journal of Dermatology suggests that complete surgical excision with histological confirmation of clear margins is recommended for squamous cell carcinoma, with consideration of Mohs micrographic surgery for high-risk lesions 6

The British Journal of Dermatology recommends referral to a specialist skin cancer multidisciplinary team for extensive lesions or patients with melanoma stage IB or higher 1

The Annals of Oncology recommends follow-up frequency for melanoma depending on stage, typically every 3-6 months for the first 3 years and every 6-12 months thereafter 4
The British Journal of Dermatology suggests that follow-up for 5 years is recommended for non-melanoma skin cancers, as 95% of local recurrences and metastases are detected within this timeframe 6
The Annals of Oncology and the British Journal of Cancer recommend patient education on self-examination and sun protection 4 3

The British Journal of Dermatology warns against inadequate surgical margins leading to recurrence, particularly for lentigo maligna on the face 5