Inter-Operator Variability in the Clinical Staging and Therapeutic Management of Basal Cell Carcinoma

Inter-Operator Variability in the Clinical Staging and Therapeutic Management of Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most frequent skin cancer in humans, primarily located in sun-exposed areas. The incidence of BCC increases with cumulative exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation and is particularly high in the elderly population, with a reported peak around 80 years of age. The new EADO classification distinguishes BCCs as 'easy-to-treat' and 'difficult-to-treat', subdivided into stages I-IV, with the aim of guiding therapeutic choices.

However, in clinical practice, there is marked variability among specialists in classification and treatment selection, with potential implications for clinical outcomes. This study aims to investigate inter-operator variability in both classification and therapeutic decisions for BCC. Specifically, it analyzes how specialists from different disciplines-dermatologists, oncologists, plastic surgeons, maxillofacial surgeons, and radiation therapists-and with varying clinical experience in BCC management approach the same clinical cases.

Inclusion Criteria:

• adult patients ≥ 18 years,

• histologically confirmed BCC, representing the full EADO spectrum (Stage IIA→ IIIC) and well-quality diagnostic image.

• Inclusion criteria (physicians)

  • Licensed medical doctors practicing in one of the target specialties: Dermatology, Plastic Surgery, Maxillofacial Surgery, Medical Oncology, or Radiotherapy.
  • Currently involved in clinical management of BCC
  • Able to provide informed consent for participation.
  • Willing and able to complete the online questionnaire within the study timeframe.
  • Minimum clinical experience: ≥ 1 year after specialty certification

Exclusion Criteria for patients:

• not diagnosed BCC cases
• patients <18 years

Exclusion Criteria for physicians:

- clinical experience <1 year after specialty certification