Pediatric Skin Cancer Surgery Pearls

The transcript discusses two case studies related to pediatric skin cancer surgery presented by an active duty medical professional. The first case involves a 10-year-old patient with Gorlin syndrome, characterized by multiple basal cell carcinomas. The speaker emphasizes the challenges of treating such cases, particularly with the potential for comorbidities and a high number of lesions. Treatment options explored include photodynamic therapy (PDT) and topical therapies like Imiquimod. Ultimately, the chosen approach combines preparation, patient comfort, and minimally invasive procedures while avoiding extensive surgical intervention. The second case focuses on a 16-year-old diagnosed with melanoma located on the nasal ala. The speaker outlines the decision-making process involved in selecting the appropriate surgical intervention, including Mohs micrographic surgery, and the importance of thorough pathological evaluation. Through these cases, the speaker highlights the complexities of pediatric skin cancer treatment and the need for thoughtful surgical planning to ensure both effective outcomes and aesthetic preservation.