Treatment with Mohs micrographic surgery produces cure rates of 93% to 99% for the most common skin cancers, basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas, Perry Robins, md, reported in The 1996 Skin Cancer Foundation Journal.
"Mohs can trace cancers to their roots, sacrifice the smallest amount of healthy tissue, and achieve the best cosmetic results," Dr. Robins, Professor of Clinical Dermatology, New York University School of Medicine, and Chief of Mohs Micrographic Surgery, New York University Medical Center, wrote.
In his article, Dr. Robins described three cases of skin cancer: on the thumb, the tip of the penis, and the ear. In each case, amputation appeared to be the only way to remove the cancer. Instead, by means of Mohs micrographic surgery, the cancers were removed without such drastic measures. Function was retained and the cosmetic results were good.
Dr. Robins concluded that the Mohs surgical technique is an extremely effective method for treating skin cancer. He has operated on more than 32,000 people with basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas during the last 30 years.
A 70-year-old man with a history of localized prostate cancer treated with whole-pelvis radiation therapy with a boost to the prostate, in conjunction with androgen deprivation therapy 7 years prior, presented with lower back pain. A bone scan revealed an area of activity in the sacrum. What is the most likely diagnosis?
