Understanding factors impacting quality of life in patients with keratinocyte carcinoma: A cross-sectional analysis of Mohs surgery patients.

BACKGROUND

Keratinocyte carcinomas are the most common malignancy in the U.S. and may substantially affect quality of life (QoL). Few studies have assessed both general and skin cancer-specific QoL or examined how patient-level factors contribute to these outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

To assess general and skin cancer-specific QoL in individuals with keratinocyte carcinomas and identify demographic and clinical predictors of QoL impairment.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 1138 patients undergoing treatment for keratinocyte carcinomas at a single academic center. Participants completed surveys assessing demographics, disease history, health care utilization, and QoL using the Skin Cancer Index, short form-20, and a care burden score. Field cancerization classification categorized cumulative skin cancer history.

RESULTS

Younger age, female sex, family history of skin cancer, higher field cancerization class, frequent dermatology visits, and chemoprevention use were significantly associated with poorer Skin Cancer Index and short form-20 scores. QoL appeared most impacted in the emotional and appearance domains of the Skin Cancer Index and the health perception domain of the short form-20.

LIMITATIONS: Single-center design, cross-sectional data, and self-reported measures.

CONCLUSION

Identifying risk groups and the specific quality of life domains they value most may help clinicians deliver more personalized education and support strategies to improve patient-centered care.