Role of multiple scouting biopsies before Mohs micrographic surgery for extramammary Paget's disease.
BACKGROUND
Extramammary Paget's disease (EMPD) frequently extends subclinically, resulting in high recurrence rates after surgical excision. Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) improves cure rates but may require time-consuming reexcision of subclinical extension. A mechanism to estimate the location and extent of subclinical extension would be helpful.


OBJECTIVE
To describe and evaluate a technique for multiple scouting biopsies before MMS for EMPD.


METHODS
A retrospective review of patients at Mayo Clinic who had multiple scouting biopsies before MMS for EMPD without dermal invasion.


METHODS
The clinical extent of EMPD is identified. The scouting biopsy sites are determined and documented with photographs. The scouting biopsy specimens are sent for permanent sections. The results of the scouting biopsies help guide the extent of the initial Mohs layer. The tumor is cleared with MMS. An additional 1 mm peripheral margin of tissue is usually submitted for permanent sections.


RESULTS
Multiple scouting biopsies were done in five patients. Four of the five patients had at least one true-positive result. At least one true-negative result was obtained in all five patients. Two patients had at least one false-negative result.


CONCLUSIONS
Multiple scouting biopsies before MMS for EMPD without dermal invasion can be a beneficial adjuvant technique.
Appert
David L
DL
Division of Dermatologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA.
Otley
Clark C
CC
Phillips
P Kim
PK
Roenigk
Randall K
RK
D000368:Aged; D001706:Biopsy; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D015580:Mohs Surgery; D010145:Paget Disease, Extramammary / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012611:Scrotum / Q000473:pathology