HDR and PDR brachytherapy for facial nonmelanoma skin cancer: Outcome and toxicity assessment for 155 patients.

INTRODUCTION

Nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC), encompassing basal and squamous cell carcinomas, is among the most common malignancies worldwide. While surgery is the standard for early-stage lesions, it can be disfiguring for periorificial facial tumors.

OBJECTIVE

To assess local and regional control, as well as toxicity outcomes, in patients with facial NMSC treated by brachytherapy at a comprehensive cancer center.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

A total of 155 patients were included. Of these, 115 had squamous cell carcinoma and 34 had basal cell carcinoma. The lip was the most frequent site (103 cases), followed by the nose (49 cases). Brachytherapy was exclusive in 128 patients and adjuvant in 27.

RESULTS

At 24 months, local and locoregional control rates were 93.9% (95% CI: 89.4-98.5%) and 90.3% (95% CI: 84.8-96.1%) respectively. No grade ≥3 late toxicity was observed.

CONCLUSION

Brachytherapy is a safe and effective organ-preserving option for facial NMSC, particularly in patients with anatomically complex lesions or contraindications to surgery.