Preventative Options and the Future of Chemoprevention for Cutaneous Tumors

Dermatol Clin. 2023 Jan;41(1):231-238. doi: 10.1016/j.det.2022.07.020. Epub 2022 Oct 28.

Abstract

Chemoprophylaxis against nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) should be considered in high-risk populations such as those with certain genetic disorders, immunosuppressive states, chronic radiation, excessive UV exposure, or extensive personal or family history of NMSC. The methods for chemoprevention have progressed beyond traditional sunscreen into more effective strategies including DNA repair enzymes, nicotinamide, systemic retinoids, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Other therapies are still being investigated and include treatments that target premalignant lesions, capecitabine, hedgehog inhibitors, difluoromethylornithine, metformin, and nutritional factors.

Keywords: Chemoprophylaxis; Cutaneous malignancy chemoprevention; Nonmelanoma skin cancer prevention.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Chemoprevention
  • Hedgehog Proteins*
  • Humans
  • Niacinamide
  • Retinoids / therapeutic use
  • Skin Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Skin Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Skin Neoplasms* / prevention & control

Substances

  • Hedgehog Proteins
  • Retinoids
  • Niacinamide