[Treatment of locally advanced and metastatic cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma]

Recenti Prog Med. 2021 Jun;112(6):69e-74e. doi: 10.1701/3620.36035.
[Article in Italian]

Abstract

Locally advanced and metastatic cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) of the skin is a rare entity and with a poor prognosis. Although less than 5% of patients with squamous carcinoma develop metastases or relapses locally after surgical removal, cSCC is difficult to treat. It tends to develop especially in elderly, frail or patients with important comorbidities and therefore not suitable for receiving aggressive treatments. Traditionally, platinum-based therapy has been considered a conventional option, but not feasible in elderly patients. The high number of advanced cSCC mutations constitutes the rationale for a systemic immunotherapy approach that can represent a turning point for these patients. Furthermore, it is necessary that more professional figures (dermatologist, oncologist, surgeon, radiotherapist, geriatrician) work in a multidisciplinary environment so that these patients can be better managed during their care path.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell* / pathology
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell* / therapy
  • Humans
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / pathology
  • Neoplasm Staging
  • Skin / pathology
  • Skin Neoplasms* / therapy