The effect of head and neck basal cell carcinoma on body image, quality of life, and Skin Cancer Quality of Life Impact Tool - Experience of a tertiary dermatology clinic: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine the impact of head and neck localized basal cell carcinoma (BCC) on body image, dermatological quality of life, and skin cancer-related quality of life. A total of 119 patients were enrolled. Patients diagnosed with BCC were asked to complete the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), Body Image Scale (BIS), and Skin Cancer Quality of Life Impact Tool (SCQOLIT). Additionally, demographic information, tumor type, localization, size, and duration of the tumors were recorded. Descriptive statistics, including mean, standard deviation, median, minimum, maximum, frequency, and ratio values, were calculated. Among the 119 patients, 45% were female, and 55% were male. SCQOLIT scores for BCC ranged from 0 to 11, with a mean score of 5.56 +/- 2.14. The BIS scores ranged from 1 to 7, with a mean score of 3.16 +/- 1.27. The DLQI scores ranged from 0 to 4, with a mean score of 1.74 +/- 1.01. The average score of the SCQOLIT was 5.56 +/- 2.14, indicating that the quality of life of BCC patients was moderately affected in the past week. The average BIS score was 3.16 +/- 1.27, suggesting that patients experienced a minimal impact on their body perception. The average DLQI score was 1.74 +/- 1.01, revealing that BCC had a minimal impact on patients' dermatological quality of life.