[Prognosis of basal cell carcinoma of the eyelids in relation to histologic differentiation and thoroughness of resection].

As life expectancy increases the diagnosis and treatment of basal cell carcinoma of the lids is assuming ever greater importance. While there is still some debate as to whether conservative or surgical treatment is preferable, the emphasis in conservative treatment varies. Our own view is based on an analysis of 531 surgically treated patients. For histologic differentiation we used the data of Lever (1958). Considering that our recidivity rate was only 6.2%, we recommend primary surgical treatment. After localization of the tumor the inner canthus in particular should be kept under observation for recurrences. Histologic differentiation showed the sclerodermiform basal cell carcinoma to be especially dangerous.