Skin Cancer Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Skin Cancer, including details on identification, causes, prevention, treatment.

Ten years of skin malignancies in a single general practice.

Shapley M

Primary Care Sciences Research Centre, Keele University, Keele, UK. m.sharpley@cphc.keele.ac.uk

BACKGROUND: Generalists within the UK have for many years been performing minor surgical procedures. Little has been published concerning this activity. OBJECTIVES: To determine the management of skin malignancy in a UK general practice in order to allow comparison of activity with other practices and disciplines and to identify areas for research. METHODS: Retrospective cohort study in an urban 4-partner general practice of 10,000 patients. Total ascertainment of all diagnosed skin malignancies over 10 years achieved by undertaking computerised searches. RESULTS: 136 skin malignancies were identified in 101 patients. The recurrence rates for basal cell carcinomas managed in primary care were comparable to rates published for secondary care. A quarter of patients developed a metachronous skin malignancy or a recurrence. CONCLUSION: Almost half of all skin malignancies were wholly managed within primary care. There appeared to be no consistent pattern of management. There is a need for research and consensus on optimal care.

Published 17 December 2004 in Dermatology, 210(1): 15-7.
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