An update on local and systemic therapies for nonmelanoma skin cancer

Expert Rev Anticancer Ther. 2022 May;22(5):479-489. doi: 10.1080/14737140.2022.2065987. Epub 2022 Apr 20.

Abstract

Introduction: Nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSC) as a group exceed the incidence of all other malignancies combined. NMSC includes basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and Merkel cell carcinoma. As the incidence continues to rise, it is important to appreciate the available treatment options.

Areas covered: This article discusses the treatment of NMSC through surgical, topical, regional, and systemic modalities.

Expert opinion: As there are many treatment options available for these diseases, selection of the appropriate method can be difficult. With time, we expect treatment decisions to become even more complex and personalized. The role of systemic immunotherapies and neoadjuvant therapies in the treatment of NMSC is still not well defined. Local treatment with intralesional injections and isolated limb infusion may prove to be promising alternative therapies.

Keywords: Basal cell carcinoma; Merkel cell carcinoma; Skin cancer; cutaneous malignancies; local therapy; nonmelanoma skin cancer; regional therapy; squamous cell carcinoma; systemic therapy.

MeSH terms

  • Carcinoma, Basal Cell* / drug therapy
  • Carcinoma, Merkel Cell* / drug therapy
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell* / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Injections, Intralesional
  • Skin Neoplasms* / drug therapy