Introduction: Despite surgical approach is still the mainstay for basal cell carcinoma (BCC) management, several issues may limit the use of this technique, leading to the need for new treatments to offer patients a personalized approach.
Areas covered: A comprehensive review of the available and emerging pharmacologic strategies for BCC management, including mechanisms of action, and potential adverse effects, has been performed to provide with an up-to-date manuscript on the current treatment scenario of BCC. Globally, targeting the Sonic-Hedgehog pathway is one of the main mechanisms of action of currently investigated drugs. Other alternatives are based on the concept of an enhancement of the immune response such as immune checkpoint inhibitors, or intra-tumor treatments.
Expert opinion: Although low-risk BCCs are often treated with destructive methods or topical treatments, surgery is the mainstay of treatment for the majority of BCCs. However, several factors may limit the use of surgery in BCC management. Recently, major knowledge on BCCs pathogenesis has led to the development of effective and selective drugs. In our opinion, soon many drugs will be licensed, allowing clinicians to offer patients with BCC the right treatment at the right moment. Certainly, further studies are needed.
Keywords: Basal cell carcinoma; emerging therapies; personalized medicine; pharmacotherapies; treatment.