Surgical Treatment of 846 Patients with Benign Skin Tumors: Experience of a Dermatologic Surgeon in Korea

Oh, Byung Ho; Seo, Jimyung; Chung, Kee Yang

Abstract

BACKGROUND
The incidence of skin tumors has been increasing over the past few years due to an aging population, environmental changes, and improved access to medical institutions.
OBJECTIVE
To report the rate of relapse and complications after surgical treatment, and suggest appropriate ways of treating benign skin tumors.
METHODS
We performed a retrospective review of 846 patients with benign skin tumors who were diagnosed and treated by a single dermatosurgeon.
RESULTS
Of the 846 patients, 18 (2.1%) developed local recurrence. Epidermal cysts (15/390) were the most common skin condition, followed by lipomas (2/149). The recurrence rate of epidermal cysts showed no statistical difference when treatment options and the presence of inflammation or suppuration at the first visit were considered. Six patients (0.7%, 6/846) had one of the complications such as persistent inflammation over one month, severe pain, secondary infection, or skin necrosis. All the lipomas following recurrence or those with complications were located in the intramuscular or submuscular area of the forehead, which were easily localized by sonography.
CONCLUSION
Surgery is a valuable method for the treatment of benign skin tumors with low rates of complication and relapse. For better outcomes after treatment, dermatologists should attempt to remove these tumors completely and consider the use of imaging studies before treatment.