Rak skóry nieczerniakowy
Leczenie

Rak skóry nieczerniakowy, obejmujący głównie raka podstawnokomórkowego (BCC) i kolczystokomórkowego (SCC), stanowi najczęstszy nowotwór złośliwy skóry z odsetkiem wyleczeń przekraczającym 90% przy wczesnym wykryciu. Podstawą leczenia jest chirurgia, w tym proste wycięcie z marginesem 4-6 mm (skuteczność >95%) oraz chirurgia mikrograficzna Mohsa, która osiąga wskaźnik wyleczeń do 99% w nowotworach wysokiego ryzyka. Alternatywne metody to łyżeczkowanie z elektrodesykacją, kriochirurgia, terapia fotodynamiczna oraz radioterapia (SXRT, HDR), stosowana zwłaszcza w lokalizacjach trudnych chirurgicznie lub u pacjentów niekwalifikujących się do zabiegu. Miejscowe terapie, takie jak 5-fluorouracyl i imikwimod, wykazują skuteczność powyżej 70% w leczeniu powierzchownych zmian i rogowacenia słonecznego.

Leczenie raka skóry nieczerniakowego

Rak skóry nieczerniakowy, obejmujący głównie raka podstawnokomórkowego (BCC) i raka kolczystokomórkowego (SCC), jest najczęstszym nowotworem złośliwym skóry. Leczenie tego typu nowotworów zależy od wielu czynników, w tym typu i stadium zaawansowania nowotworu, jego lokalizacji, wielkości oraz ogólnego stanu zdrowia pacjenta. W większości przypadków, przy wczesnym wykryciu i odpowiednim leczeniu, rokowanie jest bardzo dobre, a wskaźniki wyleczalności przekraczają 90%12.

Metody chirurgiczne

Chirurgia jest podstawową metodą leczenia raków skóry nieczerniakowych. W zależności od charakterystyki nowotworu, stosuje się różne techniki chirurgiczne12:

  • Proste wycięcie chirurgiczne (eksycja) – polega na wycięciu zmiany nowotworowej wraz z marginesem zdrowej skóry, zwykle 4-6 mm. Metoda ta jest skuteczna w przypadku większości raków skóry nieczerniakowych o niskim ryzyku, z odsetkiem wyleczeń przekraczającym 95%12.
  • Chirurgia mikrograficzna Mohsa – uznawana za złoty standard w leczeniu BCC i SCC wysokiego ryzyka. Polega na warstwowym usuwaniu zmiany i natychmiastowej ocenie mikroskopowej każdej warstwy, co pozwala na całkowite usunięcie nowotworu z minimalnym uszkodzeniem zdrowej tkanki. Wskaźnik wyleczalności tą metodą sięga 99% w przypadku pierwotnych nowotworów12.
  • Łyżeczkowanie i elektrodesykacja – technika często stosowana w przypadku małych BCC i SCC, polegająca na mechanicznym usunięciu nowotworu za pomocą łyżeczki chirurgicznej i następnie elektrokoagulacji podstawy rany12.
  • Kriochirurgia – metoda wykorzystująca ciekły azot do zamrożenia i zniszczenia komórek nowotworowych, stosowana głównie w przypadku powierzchownych BCC, SCC in situ oraz rogowacenia słonecznego12.
  • Chirurgia laserowa – wykorzystuje precyzyjny promień światła laserowego do usunięcia lub zniszczenia komórek nowotworowych1.

Radioterapia

Radioterapia wykorzystuje wysokoenergetyczne promieniowanie do niszczenia komórek nowotworowych. Jest zalecana w przypadkach, gdy12:

  • Nowotwór znajduje się w miejscu trudno dostępnym chirurgicznie (np. okolice oczu, nosa, uszu)
  • Operacja może spowodować znaczne zniekształcenie twarzy lub upośledzenie funkcji
  • Pacjent nie kwalifikuje się do zabiegu chirurgicznego ze względu na wiek lub choroby współistniejące
  • Jako leczenie uzupełniające po operacji, gdy istnieje wysokie ryzyko nawrotu

Radioterapia wykazuje wysoką skuteczność w leczeniu raków skóry nieczerniakowych, zwłaszcza we wczesnych stadiach, z odsetkiem wyleczeń podobnym do metod chirurgicznych12. Dostępne są różne techniki radioterapii, w tym radioterapia powierzchniowa (SXRT) oraz brachyterapia (HDR)1.

Leczenie miejscowe

Miejscowe metody leczenia są często stosowane w przypadku zmian powierzchownych, przedinwazyjnych lub jako terapia uzupełniająca12:

  • Chemioterapia miejscowa – stosowanie leków przeciwnowotworowych w postaci kremów lub maści, najczęściej 5-fluorouracylu (5-FU), który niszczy komórki nowotworowe poprzez zakłócenie syntezy DNA1.
  • Immunoterapia miejscowa – preparaty takie jak imikwimod stymulują miejscową odpowiedź immunologiczną przeciwko komórkom nowotworowym. Skuteczność w leczeniu powierzchownych BCC i rogowacenia słonecznego wynosi powyżej 70%12.
  • Terapia fotodynamiczna (PDT) – polega na aplikacji substancji fotouczulającej, która po aktywacji światłem o określonej długości fali niszczy selektywnie komórki nowotworowe. Jest skuteczna w leczeniu powierzchownych BCC, SCC in situ (choroby Bowena) oraz rogowacenia słonecznego12.

Leczenie systemowe zaawansowanych raków nieczerniakowych

W przypadku miejscowo zaawansowanych lub przerzutowych raków skóry nieczerniakowych, które nie mogą być leczone chirurgicznie lub radioterapią, stosuje się leczenie systemowe12:

Immunoterapia systemowa

Immunoterapia wykorzystująca inhibitory punktów kontrolnych układu immunologicznego stanowi obecnie standard leczenia zaawansowanych raków skóry nieczerniakowych. Dwa przeciwciała anty-PD-1 zostały zatwierdzone do leczenia zaawansowanego SCC12:

  • Cemiplimab (Libtayo) – pierwsze przeciwciało anty-PD-1 zatwierdzone przez FDA do leczenia SCC w stadium miejscowo zaawansowanym lub z przerzutami, niebędącego kandydatem do leczenia operacyjnego lub radioterapii. Wykazuje wysoką skuteczność i trwałe odpowiedzi12.
  • Pembrolizumab (Keytruda) – drugi lek z grupy inhibitorów PD-1 zatwierdzony do leczenia nawrotowego lub przerzutowego SCC nieuleczalnego chirurgicznie lub radioterapią12.

W przypadku zaawansowanego BCC, cemiplimab jest stosowany jako terapia drugiej linii po niepowodzeniu leczenia inhibitorami szlaku Hedgehog, z częstymi i trwałymi odpowiedziami12.

Terapia celowana

Leki ukierunkowane molekularnie działają na specyficzne mechanizmy związane z rozwojem nowotworu12:

  • Inhibitory szlaku Hedgehogvismodegib (Erivedge) i sonidegib (Odomzo) są stosowane w leczeniu zaawansowanego BCC, blokując białko smoothened w szlaku sygnałowym Hedgehog. Stanowią pierwszą linię leczenia w przypadku miejscowo zaawansowanego BCC niebędącego kandydatem do leczenia miejscowego12.
  • Inhibitory EGFRcetuximab (Erbitux) jest przeciwciałem monoklonalnym skierowanym przeciwko receptorowi naskórkowego czynnika wzrostu (EGFR). Wykazuje skuteczność w leczeniu zaawansowanego SCC, szczególnie w połączeniu z radioterapią lub chemioterapią opartą na pochodnych platyny12.
Chemioterapia systemowa

Chemioterapia systemowa jest rzadziej stosowana ze względu na ograniczoną skuteczność i znaczną toksyczność, ale może być opcją dla pacjentów niekwalifikujących się do immunoterapii lub terapii celowanej1. Najczęściej stosowane schematy obejmują12:

Podejście multidyscyplinarne i indywidualizacja leczenia

Optymalne leczenie raków skóry nieczerniakowych wymaga współpracy wielospecjalistycznego zespołu, w skład którego wchodzą12:

  • Dermatolog
  • Chirurg onkologiczny
  • Radioterapeuta
  • Onkolog kliniczny
  • Chirurg plastyczny (w przypadkach wymagających rekonstrukcji)

Wybór metody leczenia powinien być zindywidualizowany i uwzględniać następujące czynniki12:

  • Typ i stadium nowotworu
  • Lokalizacja i wielkość zmiany
  • Głębokość inwazji
  • Cechy histopatologiczne (np. inwazja okołonerwowa, naczyniowa)
  • Wcześniejsze leczenie i nawroty
  • Stan ogólny pacjenta i choroby współistniejące
  • Preferencje pacjenta

Badania kliniczne i nowe kierunki leczenia

Pacjenci z zaawansowanymi rakami skóry nieczerniakowego mogą być kandydatami do udziału w badaniach klinicznych, które oceniają nowe strategie terapeutyczne12:

  • Kombinacje immunoterapii (np. połączenie inhibitorów PD-1 z innymi immunoterapeutykami)1
  • Terapie neoadjuwantowe (przedoperacyjne) i adjuwantowe (pooperacyjne) z zastosowaniem immunoterapii1
  • Nowe inhibitory szlaku Hedgehog działające poprzez alternatywne mechanizmy1
  • Superficjalna radioterapia z obrazowaniem (IGSRT), która wykazuje wskaźnik wyleczenia sięgający 99,3% w przypadku wczesnych stadiów raków nieczerniakowych12

Opieka po zakończeniu leczenia i obserwacja

Po zakończeniu leczenia raka skóry nieczerniakowego istotna jest regularna obserwacja ze względu na możliwość nawrotu oraz rozwoju nowych zmian nowotworowych1. Zalecenia obejmują1:

  • Regularne badania kontrolne (co 3-12 miesięcy w zależności od ryzyka nawrotu)
  • Samobadanie skóry przez pacjenta
  • Ochrona przed promieniowaniem UV (stosowanie kremów z filtrem, odpowiedniej odzieży, unikanie nadmiernej ekspozycji na słońce)
  • Edukacja pacjenta dotycząca wczesnego rozpoznawania nowych zmian

Leczenie poszczególnych typów raka skóry nieczerniakowego

Leczenie raka podstawnokomórkowego (BCC)

Rak podstawnokomórkowy (BCC) jest najczęstszym typem raka skóry nieczerniakowego. Leczenie zależy od wielkości, lokalizacji, typu histologicznego oraz ryzyka nawrotu12.

Dla BCC powierzchownego zalecane metody leczenia to12:

  • Proste wycięcie chirurgiczne
  • Łyżeczkowanie i elektrodesykacja
  • Kriochirurgia
  • Terapia fotodynamiczna
  • Miejscowa chemioterapia (5-fluorouracyl)
  • Immunoterapia miejscowa (imikwimod)

Dla BCC guzkowego i naciekającego preferowane metody to12:

  • Chirurgia mikrograficzna Mohsa (szczególnie w regionach wysokiego ryzyka, jak twarz)
  • Szerokie wycięcie chirurgiczne
  • Radioterapia (gdy chirurgia nie jest możliwa)

W przypadku zaawansowanego BCC, który nie kwalifikuje się do leczenia chirurgicznego lub radioterapii, stosuje się12:

  • Inhibitory szlaku Hedgehog (vismodegib, sonidegib) jako pierwsza linia leczenia
  • Cemiplimab jako druga linia po niepowodzeniu leczenia inhibitorami szlaku Hedgehog

Leczenie raka kolczystokomórkowego (SCC)

Rak kolczystokomórkowy (SCC) jest drugim pod względem częstości występowania rakiem skóry nieczerniakowym. Charakteryzuje się większym potencjałem do tworzenia przerzutów niż BCC1.

Dla SCC we wczesnym stadium zalecane jest12:

  • Wycięcie chirurgiczne (z marginesem 4-6 mm)
  • Chirurgia mikrograficzna Mohsa (dla zmian wysokiego ryzyka lub w lokalizacjach wymagających oszczędzania tkanek)
  • Łyżeczkowanie i elektrodesykacja (dla małych, dobrze zróżnicowanych SCC)
  • Radioterapia (jako alternatywa dla chirurgii)

Dla SCC in situ (choroba Bowena) można zastosować1:

  • Terapię fotodynamiczną
  • Kriochirurgię
  • Miejscową chemioterapię (5-fluorouracyl)
  • Immunoterapię miejscową (imikwimod)

W przypadku zaawansowanego lub przerzutowego SCC stosuje się12:

  • Inhibitory PD-1 (cemiplimab, pembrolizumab) jako pierwsza linia leczenia
  • Inhibitory EGFR (cetuximab) w połączeniu z radioterapią lub chemioterapią
  • Chemioterapię opartą na pochodnych platyny, paklitakselu i cetuximabie dla pacjentów niekwalifikujących się do immunoterapii

Leczenie rogowacenia słonecznego (actinic keratosis)

Rogowacenie słoneczne (AK) jest stanem przedrakowym, który może przekształcić się w SCC. Leczenie ma na celu eliminację zmian i zapobieganie progresji do inwazyjnego raka12:

  • Kriochirurgia
  • Miejscowa chemioterapia (5-fluorouracyl)
  • Immunoterapia miejscowa (imikwimod)
  • Terapia fotodynamiczna
  • Peelingi chemiczne (np. kwas trichlorooctowy)
  • Łyżeczkowanie i elektrodesykacja
  • Inne leki miejscowe (np. diklofenak, ingenol mebutate)
Metoda leczenia Wskazania Skuteczność Zalety Ograniczenia
Chirurgia mikrograficzna Mohsa BCC i SCC wysokiego ryzyka, lokalizacja w okolicach estetycznie wrażliwych 94-99% Maksymalne oszczędzanie zdrowej tkanki, najwyższy odsetek wyleczeń Czasochłonna, wymaga specjalistycznego przygotowania, większy koszt
Wycięcie chirurgiczne Większość BCC i SCC 90-95% Szybka procedura, możliwa ocena histopatologiczna Blizna pooperacyjna, ograniczenia w lokalizacjach problematycznych
Łyżeczkowanie i elektrodesykacja Małe, powierzchowne BCC i SCC niskiego ryzyka 85-90% Szybka procedura, niski koszt Brak materiału do oceny histopatologicznej, wyższe ryzyko nawrotu
Radioterapia Pacjenci niekwalifikujący się do zabiegu, lokalizacje trudne chirurgicznie 85-95% Nieinwazyjna, dobre efekty kosmetyczne Wymaga wielu sesji, późne efekty uboczne, przeciwwskazana u młodszych pacjentów
Immunoterapia (inhibitory PD-1) Zaawansowany/przerzutowy SCC, zaawansowany BCC po niepowodzeniu inhibitorów szlaku Hedgehog 50-60% Trwałe odpowiedzi, możliwość systemowego działania Wysokie koszty, możliwe działania niepożądane immunologiczne
Inhibitory szlaku Hedgehog Zaawansowany BCC niebędący kandydatem do leczenia miejscowego 60-80% Skuteczność w zaawansowanym BCC Działania niepożądane, rozwój oporności, konieczność stosowania przerw w leczeniu
Terapia fotodynamiczna Powierzchowne BCC, SCC in situ, rogowacenie słoneczne 70-90% Doskonałe efekty kosmetyczne, leczenie obszarów Ograniczona penetracja w tkankach, ból w trakcie procedury

Nowe trendy w leczeniu raka skóry nieczerniakowego

Leczenie raków skóry nieczerniakowych stale ewoluuje, a nowe metody i technologie przyczyniają się do poprawy wyników leczenia i jakości życia pacjentów12:

  • Superficjalna radioterapia z obrazowaniem (IGSRT) – niechirurgiczna metoda leczenia BCC i SCC wykorzystująca ultradźwiękowe obrazowanie do precyzyjnego kierowania niskiej dawki promieniowania X, z odsetkiem wyleczeń sięgającym 99,3%12.
  • Neoadjuwantowe stosowanie immunoterapii – podawanie inhibitorów punktów kontrolnych przed zabiegiem chirurgicznym w celu zmniejszenia wielkości guza i ułatwienia resekcji1.
  • Kombinacje immunoterapii – jednoczesne blokowanie różnych punktów kontrolnych układu immunologicznego może zwiększyć skuteczność leczenia1.
  • Spersonalizowane podejście oparte na biomarkerach – identyfikacja biomarkerów predykcyjnych może pomóc w wyborze optymalnej terapii dla konkretnego pacjenta1.
  • Telemedycyna i sztuczna inteligencja – ułatwiają wczesne wykrywanie i monitorowanie leczenia raków skóry nieczerniakowych1.

Rak skóry nieczerniakowy, mimo wysokiej częstości występowania, charakteryzuje się doskonałym rokowaniem przy wczesnym wykryciu i właściwym leczeniu. Wybór optymalnej metody terapeutycznej powinien być zindywidualizowany i uwzględniać zarówno charakterystykę nowotworu, jak i preferencje pacjenta. Postęp w dziedzinie immunoterapii i terapii celowanych znacząco poprawił możliwości leczenia zaawansowanych przypadków, które wcześniej miały ograniczone opcje terapeutyczne. Wielospecjalistyczne podejście, obejmujące dermatologów, chirurgów, radioterapeutów i onkologów, jest kluczowe dla zapewnienia najlepszych wyników leczenia12.

Kolejne rozdziały

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Wybierz kolejny rozdział z menu poniżej, aby otworzyć nową podstronę kompedium wiedzy i uzyskać szczegółowe informację o leku, substancji lub chorobie.

  1. 10.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

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    Surgery is the main treatment for non-melanoma skin cancer. This involves removing the cancerous tumour and some of the surrounding skin. […] Other treatments for non-melanoma skin cancer include cryotherapy, creams, radiotherapy, chemotherapy and a treatment known as photodynamic therapy (PDT). […] Treatment for non-melanoma skin cancer is generally successful as, unlike most other types of cancer, there is a considerably lower risk that the cancer will spread to other parts of the body. […] It is estimated that basal cell carcinoma will spread to other parts of the body in less than 0.5% of cases. The risk is slightly higher in cases of squamous cell carcinoma, which spreads to other parts of the body in around 2 to 5% of cases. […] Treatment for non-melanoma skin cancer is completely successful in approximately 90% of cases.
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    Non-melanoma skin cancer is usually treated with surgery. […] Non-melanoma skin cancer is sometimes treated with radiation therapy. […] Drug therapy is sometimes used to treat non-melanoma skin cancer. […] Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is sometimes used to treat non-melanoma skin cancer. […] Follow-up is an important part of care for non-melanoma skin cancer. It often involves regular tests and visits with the healthcare team.
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    For small, early BCCs that have not spread, excisional surgery is frequently the only treatment required. Cure rates are above 95 percent in most body areas, similar to those of curettage and electrodesiccation. […] With radiation therapy, there is no way of knowing that all of the tumor was destroyed. […] Cryosurgery is effective for smaller, superficial BCCs. […] Laser surgery is not yet FDA-approved for superficial BCCs but is sometimes used as a secondary therapy, especially when other techniques have been unsuccessful. […] PDT can be used for some superficial BCCs on the face and scalp but is not recommended for invasive BCC. […] 5-FU, a chemotherapy approved to treat certain internal cancers, has also been FDA-approved in topical form for superficial BCCs, with cure rates between 80 and 90 percent.
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    When detected early, most basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) can be treated and cured. Prompt treatment is vital, because as the tumor grows, it becomes more dangerous and potentially disfiguring, requiring more extensive treatment. Certain rare, aggressive forms can be fatal if not treated promptly. […] If you’ve been diagnosed with a small or early BCC, a number of effective treatments can usually be performed on an outpatient basis, using a local anesthetic with minimal pain. Afterwards, most wounds can heal naturally, leaving minimal scarring. […] Options include: Curettage and electrodesiccation (electrosurgery), Mohs surgery, Excisional surgery, Radiation therapy, Photodynamic therapy, Cryosurgery, Laser surgery, Topical medications, Medications for advanced BCC. […] Mohs surgery is the gold standard, the most effective technique for removing BCCs, harming minimal healthy tissue while achieving the highest possible cure rate — up to 99 percent on tumors treated for the first time.
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  • #1 Non-melanoma skin cancer: Learn More – What are the treatment options for non-melanoma skin cancer? – InformedHealth.org – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK321128/
    If someone is diagnosed with non-melanoma skin cancer, the first treatment doctors usually suggest is surgery to try to remove it. Skin cancer can also be treated using medication or radiotherapy. The treatment options will depend on various factors such as the type of cancer, how big the tumor is, and how aggressive it is. […] Non-melanoma skin cancer can often be completely removed through surgery, so it is the treatment of first choice. The doctor not only removes the tumor itself, but also some of the tissue around it. This margin is removed to prevent any cancer cells from staying behind and spreading inside the body. Smaller wounds often heal without scarring, but bigger operations can leave visible scars. […] Radiotherapy, also known as radiation therapy, aims to destroy cancerous tissue using high-energy radiation. In non-melanoma skin cancer, radiotherapy is usually only considered if surgery is no longer possible or if there is a high risk of the cancer returning.
  • #1 Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer Treatment | Targeting Cancer AU & NZ
    https://www.targetingcancer.com.au/treatment-by-cancer-type/non-melanoma-skin-cancer/
    For small and low-risk skin cancers, radiation therapy can work as well as surgery. […] For larger or more advanced skin cancers, especially those near the lymph nodes, surgery is usually the first choice. […] Merkel cell carcinomas respond well to radiation therapy and can be cured without surgery. […] External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT) is the most common type of radiation therapy used for non-melanoma skin cancer. […] Superficial radiation therapy (SXRT) is another way to treat skin cancer. […] In Australia, a topical radiation therapy called Rhenium is also available for some small, thin skin cancers. […] Radiation therapy is more effective with fewer side effects than ever before. […] Side effects from radiation therapy vary between people, even for those having the same treatment.
  • #1 Skin Cancer Treatment Options
    https://newyorkoncology.com/skin-cancer/skin-cancer-treatment
    There are several ways to approach skin cancer treatment. Your oncologist will work with you to find the best combination, given the stage and your overall health. Four types of skin cancer treatments are often used, alone or in combination. They include: […] Nonmelanoma skin cancers are typically removed with surgery. In rare cases, where these have spread, additional therapy through an oncologist may be advised. […] Radiation therapy is a cancer treatment that uses high-energy x-rays or other types of radiation to kill cancer cells or keep them from growing. […] High dose radiation (HDR) brachytherapy can be an effective skin cancer treatment for non-melanoma skin cancers, especially when surgery would leave disfiguring scars or skin cancer surgery wasn’t able to remove all of the cancer.
  • #1 Basal & Squamous Cell Local Treatment | Skin Cancer Local Treatments | American Cancer Society
    https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/basal-and-squamous-cell-skin-cancer/treating/other-than-surgery.html
    Cryotherapy, photodynamic therapy, topical chemotherapy, or other local treatments might be options to treat basal and squamous cell skin cancers (or pre-cancers) that haven’t spread beyond the skin. […] These are called local treatments because they only affect the area being treated. […] Cryotherapy is used most often for pre-cancerous skin conditions such as actinic keratosis. It might also be used for squamous cell carcinoma in situ (Bowen disease) or for small basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas. […] PDT can be used to treat actinic keratoses. It might also be an option to treat some small, low risk basal cell skin cancers, as well as very early forms of squamous cell cancer (known as squamous cell carcinoma in situ, or Bowen disease). […] Chemotherapy (chemo) uses drugs that kill cancer cells. Topical chemotherapy means that an anti-cancer medicine is put directly on the skin (usually in a cream or ointment) rather than being taken by mouth or given as an IV into a vein.
  • #1 Therapeutic Approaches for Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer: Standard of Care and Emerging Modalities
    https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/25/13/7056
    For patients who are not candidates for surgery, topical treatments such as imiquimod or 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) creams offer alternative approaches to manage precancerous lesions or localized cSCC. Topical 5-FU disrupts intracellular nucleotide pools, selectively targeting rapidly proliferating cells in abnormal skin, leading to inflammation, erosion, and lesion resolution. Its targeted cytotoxicity makes it a promising choice in dermato-oncology, effectively treating malignant and non-malignant skin conditions while minimizing harm to healthy skin cells. Imiquimod acts as a Toll-like receptor 7 agonist and serves as a topical immunostimulatory agent. Treatment with imiquimod has achieved remission rates exceeding 70% in patients with localized cSCC, although surgery is still considered more effective overall.
  • #1 Update in the treatment of non-melanoma skin cancers: the use of PD-1 inhibitors in basal cell carcinoma and cutaneous squamous-cell carcinoma
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9716987/
    Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) includes a wide range of cutaneous tumors, the most frequent of which are basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC). […] Advanced NMSC may require systemic treatment if surgery and radiation are not feasible. Chemotherapy, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors in CSCC, and hedgehog inhibitors in BCC have been used but are generally of limited benefit, with responses often short-lived and toxicity issues. […] Given the high mutational burden of NMSC, the use of immunotherapy has been investigated and two anti-PD-1 antibodies, cemiplimab and pembrolizumab, are approved for the treatment of advanced CSCC not curable by surgery or radiation. […] PD-1 blockade is also approved as second-line therapy in advanced BCC, with frequent and durable responses after failure on hedgehog inhibitor therapy.
  • #1 Update in the treatment of non-melanoma skin cancers: the use of PD-1 inhibitors in basal cell carcinoma and cutaneous squamous-cell carcinoma
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9716987/
    Anti-PD-1 therapy is now the standard of care for locally advanced and metastatic CSCC. […] The efficacy of anti-PD-1/PD-ligand (L)1 antibodies in melanoma and other solid tumors is well established. Two anti-PD-1 antibodies have also been approved for the treatment of advanced CSCC, cemiplimab and pembrolizumab. […] Pembrolizumab was initially approved in the USA for recurrent or metastatic CSCC not curable by surgery or radiation, with this indication later expanded to include locally advanced CSCC. […] Cemiplimab is a fully human immunoglobulin G4 anti-PD-1 antibody that is approved for the treatment of metastatic CSCC or locally advanced CSCC not amenable to curative surgery or curative radiation in both Europe and the USA. […] The safety profile was similar to that seen with pembrolizumab monotherapy in melanoma and non-small-cell lung cancer.
  • #1 Update in the treatment of non-melanoma skin cancers: the use of PD-1 inhibitors in basal cell carcinoma and cutaneous squamous-cell carcinoma
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9716987/
    Advanced BCC is rare but very difficult to treat. […] Several case reports of patients with advanced BCC treated with PD-1 inhibitors have been reported, with patients achieving partial or complete responses. […] Future studies should evaluate anti-PD-1 as first-line therapy before hedgehog inhibitor therapy. […] NMSC is the most frequent tumors in humans and is increasing in prevalence, due to the aging of populations and increased chronic UV exposure, as well as greater disease awareness with earlier diagnosis. […] However, some patients progress to locally advanced or to metastatic disease, primarily because of immunosuppression, comorbidities, or neglect. […] Anti-PD-1 with either cemiplimab or pembrolizumab is now the standard of care for locally advanced and metastatic CSCC. […] Cemiplimab is also the standard salvage approach in patients with BCC, with frequent and durable responses after failure on hedgehog inhibitor therapy. […] Clinical trials of immunotherapy must be prioritized for further improvement in outcomes.
  • #1 Skin cancer – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/skin-cancer/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20377608
    Surgery. Skin cancer surgery often involves removing the cancer and some of the healthy tissue around it. […] Mohs surgery. Mohs surgery involves removing the skin cancer layer by layer. Each time a layer is removed, the surgeon uses a microscope to look for cancer cells. The surgery continues until no cancer cells are left. This kind of surgery lets the surgeon take out the cancer without removing too much of the healthy skin around it. […] Radiation therapy. Radiation therapy treats cancer with powerful energy beams. […] Chemotherapy. Chemotherapy treats cancer with strong medicines. […] Targeted therapy. Targeted therapy for cancer is a treatment that uses medicines that attack specific chemicals in the cancer cells. By blocking these chemicals, targeted treatments can cause cancer cells to die.
  • #1
    https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11912-024-01570-1
    Pembrolizumab is another monoclonal antibody targeting PD-1 that became the second immunotherapy agent approved for CSCC in June 2020 for patients with recurrent or mCSCC not curable by surgery or radiation. […] For laBCC not amenable to curative intent local intervention, the current standard of care is initial treatment with a hedgehog inhibitor (HHI) (either vismodegib or sonidegib). […] For mBCC, vismodegib is the initial HHI of choice. […] Cemiplimab was approved in February 2021 for treatment of laBCC in patients who already progressed through or were intolerant to HHIs. […] For mMCC, standard therapy includes anti PD-1 therapy (avelumab, pembrolizumab, nivolumab, or retifanlimab).
  • #1 Therapeutic Approaches for Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer: Standard of Care and Emerging Modalities
    https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/25/13/7056
    In the past, advanced cSCC was predominantly treated through targeted therapeutic strategies, particularly emphasizing the utilization of EGFR inhibitors. However, with the advent of immunotherapy, the role of these agents has become less prominent. Among the most promising therapeutic agents are cetuximab and panitumumab. The administration of cetuximab, whether independently or in combination with radiotherapy or platinum-based agents, has demonstrated clinical effectiveness in managing advanced cSCC. […] Systemic immunotherapy has revolutionized the treatment landscape for advanced or metastatic non-melanoma skin cancers like cSCC, especially for patients who are unsuitable candidates for surgery or radiation therapy. Checkpoint inhibitors such as cemiplimab and pembrolizumab have emerged as key players, targeting pathways like PD-1/PD-L1 and significantly improving patient outcomes. The advent of immunotherapy has transformed the management of advanced non-melanoma skin cancers, offering new hope for patients previously facing limited treatment options and poor outcomes.
  • #1
    https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11912-024-01570-1
    For non-surgical candidates, standard of care includes radiotherapy in combination with systemic therapy or systemic therapy alone if curative radiotherapy is not feasible. […] Preferred systemic regimens include cemiplimab, pembrolizumab, or a clinical trial. […] In patients who are ineligible for or have progressed on immunotherapy and clinical trials, carboplatin, paclitaxel, and cetuximab may be considered. […] Cemiplimab is a monoclonal antibody directed against programmed death 1 (PD-1). In September 2018, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved cemiplimab for treatment of mCSCC or laCSCC in patients who are not candidates for curative surgery or radiation. […] This marked the first time that the FDA officially approved any systemic therapy for advanced CSCC, for which no standard-of-care existed.
  • #1 Basal and Squamous Cell Carcinoma | Non-melanoma skin cancer | Cancer Council
    https://www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/types-of-cancer/non-melanoma-skin-cancer
    Depending on your treatment, your treatment team may consist of a number of different health professionals, such as: GP (General Practitioner) – looks after your general health and works with your specialists to coordinate treatment. […] Dermatologist – specialises in preventing, diagnosing and treating skin diseases. […] Radiation oncologist – prescribes and coordinates radiation therapy treatment. […] Surgeon – Surgeon which can be a general surgeon, a surgical oncologist to manage complex skin cancers or a plastic surgeon trained in complex constructive techniques, including surgery if the cancer has spread. […] An individual’s prognosis depends on the type and stage of cancer, as well as their age and general health at the time of diagnosis. The majority of basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are successfully treated.
  • #1 Treating Basal & Squamous Cell Skin Cancer | Squamous Cell Treatment | American Cancer Society
    https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/basal-and-squamous-cell-skin-cancer/treating.html
    Most basal and squamous cell cancers (as well as pre-cancers) are treated by dermatologists doctors who specialize in treating skin diseases. […] Its important to discuss all of your treatment options, including their goals and possible side effects, with your doctors to help make the decision that best fits your needs. […] Clinical trials are carefully controlled research studies that are done to get a closer look at promising new treatments or procedures. Clinical trials are one way to get state-of-the-art cancer treatment. […] You may hear about alternative or complementary methods to relieve symptoms or treat your cancer that your doctors havent mentioned. […] Be sure to talk to your cancer care team about any method you are thinking about using. They can help you learn what is known (or not known) about the method, which can help you make an informed decision.
  • #1 After Decades of Limited Treatment Options, New Treatments Are Showing Promise for Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer
    https://www.pharmacytimes.com/view/after-decades-of-limited-treatment-options-new-treatments-are-showing-promise-for-non-melanoma-skin-cancer
    Our preferred regimens there are ICIs, and it’s specifically cemiplimab and pembrolizumab. […] The 2 that have indications are cemiplimab and pembrolizumab. […] Data supporting their use comes from phase 2 trials where, really, we see high objective response rates and good durable responses. […] Currently, there are not any approvals for a combination ICI regimens for our non-melanoma skin cancers, but there are studies undergoing looking at combination immunotherapy regimens. […] Pharmacists play a big role in the medication management. […] A number of trials [are] going on with ICIs.
  • #1
    https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11912-024-01570-1
    This review provides an update on approved and emerging systemic therapies in the treatment of locally advanced or metastatic non-melanoma skin cancers (squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma, Merkel cell carcinoma). […] Many studies demonstrate the effectiveness of immunotherapy for all types of non-melanoma skin cancer. For basal cell carcinoma (BCC), hedgehog inhibitors (HHI) remain first-line but with poor tolerability. Numerous clinical trials studying both neoadjuvant and adjuvant use of anti-PD-1 and anti-PD-L1 therapies in advanced NMSC are under investigation. […] There is a growing number of systemic therapies available to treat non-melanoma skin cancers. The advent of immunotherapy has revolutionized the field and greatly improved survival compared to historical survival rates with cytotoxic chemotherapy.
  • #1 Systemic Treatment for Advanced Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer
    https://www.targetedonc.com/view/systemic-treatment-for-advanced-non-melanoma-skin-cancer
    For squamous cell carcinoma, there are epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors, and there are multiple of them. […] This CX-4945 agent, which is a CK2 inhibitor, works in all 3 areas. […] Currently, it’s being studied in people who were either failing a Hedgehog inhibitor or couldn’t tolerate one because Hedgehog inhibitors have some adverse events that are difficult to tolerate. […] There are some recent studies in the last year from Nature and from Cancer Cell talking about these noncanonical pathways. […] It’s not just the first month when we look at the maximal tolerated dose, it’s the chronic dosing, which can end up being an issue with patients. […] Yes, some patients need drug holidays. But you should think twice and only use drug holidays when they just have to be used. […] Based on this newer literature, I would caution patients to take them when necessary, but certainly don’t take them on some regular frequency until this is reconciled.
  • #1 Nonsurgical Treatment for Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer Exhibits 99% Cure Rate
    https://www.dermatologytimes.com/view/nonsurgical-treatment-for-nonmelanoma-skin-cancer-exhibits-99-cure-rate
    A nonsurgical treatment for nonmelanoma skin cancer is now available in Kentucky and Alaska, SkinCure Oncology recently announced. Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy (IGSRT) is the only treatment for basal and squamous cell carcinoma that uses ultrasound imaging to direct low-level x-rays to specific areas, killing cancer cells without bleeding, pain, surgical scarring, or the need for reconstructive surgery. […] The GentleCure treatment has exhibited a 99.3% cure rate for early-stage nonmelanoma, making it just as effective as surgical treatment. […] IGSRT has a cure rate of 99% for appropriately selected skin cancers which is the same cure rate as Mohs surgery. This treatment allows patients to be treated without pain, avoids the need for reconstructive surgery and leaves the patient without a residual scar.
  • #1 Disease Management: Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer
    https://www.clevelandclinicmeded.com/medicalpubs/diseasemanagement/dermatology/nonmelanoma-skin-cancer/
    As with BCC, surgical excision is a common and effective method to treat SCC. Excision involves making an elliptical incision around the SCC with a margin of 4 mm to 6 mm of normal appearing skin. […] According to recent AAD guidelines, low risk SCC may be treated by standard excision with a 4 mm to 6 mm margin of normal skin. […] Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) is ideal for the complete removal of cutaneous malignancies while preserving as much normal surrounding tissue as possible. […] Current AAD guidelines do not include the use of laser modalities for the treatment of SCC due to lack of evidence in the literature. […] Photodynamic therapy (PDT) involves application of a photosensitizing topical medication (often 5-aminolevulinic acid) followed by irradiation of the area under a light source. […] Most patients with primary cutaneous SCC have a very good prognosis. However, patients with more advanced disease may have poor outcomes. […] The AAD recommends at least annual screening of patients diagnosed with SCC or BCC.
  • #1 Skin Cancer Treatment – NCI
    https://www.cancer.gov/types/skin/patient/skin-treatment-pdq
    Chemotherapy for basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma of the skin, and actinic keratosis is usually topical (applied to the skin in a cream or lotion). […] Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a cancer treatment that uses a drug and a certain type of light to kill cancer cells. […] Immunotherapy is a treatment that uses the patient’s immune system to fight cancer. […] Targeted therapy is a type of treatment that uses drugs or other substances to identify and attack specific cancer cells. […] Actinic keratosis is not cancer but is treated because it may develop into cancer. […] Treatment of basal cell carcinoma that is localized may include the following: Simple excision, Mohs micrographic surgery, Radiation therapy, Curettage and electrodesiccation, Cryosurgery, Photodynamic therapy, Topical chemotherapy, Topical immunotherapy (imiquimod), Laser surgery (rarely used).
  • #1 Skin Cancer Treatment – NCI
    https://www.cancer.gov/types/skin/patient/skin-treatment-pdq
    Treatment of squamous cell carcinoma that is localized may include the following: Simple excision, Mohs micrographic surgery, Radiation therapy, Curettage and electrodesiccation, Cryosurgery, Photodynamic therapy, for squamous cell carcinoma in situ (stage 0). […] Treatment of actinic keratosis may include the following: Topical chemotherapy, Topical immunotherapy (imiquimod), Other drug therapy (diclofenac or ingenol), Chemical peel, Simple excision, Shave excision, Curettage and electrodesiccation, Dermabrasion, Photodynamic therapy, Laser surgery.
  • #1 Skin Cancer Treatment – NCI
    https://www.cancer.gov/types/skin/patient/skin-treatment-pdq
    Skin cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the skin. […] Different types of cancer start in the skin. […] Skin cancer may form in basal cells or squamous cells. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the most common types of skin cancer. They are also called nonmelanoma skin cancer. Actinic keratosis is a skin condition that sometimes becomes squamous cell carcinoma. […] Tests or procedures that examine the skin are used to diagnose basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma of the skin. […] Certain factors affect prognosis (chance of recovery) and treatment options. […] Treatment options for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma of the skin depend on the following: The type of cancer. The stage of the cancer, for squamous cell carcinoma. The size of the tumor and what part of the body it affects. The patient’s general health.
  • #1 After Decades of Limited Treatment Options, New Treatments Are Showing Promise for Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer
    https://www.pharmacytimes.com/view/after-decades-of-limited-treatment-options-new-treatments-are-showing-promise-for-non-melanoma-skin-cancer
    With immune checkpoint inhibitors in particular, patients are seeing greater results with fewer adverse effects. […] Historically, there have not been great number of treatment options for our non-melanoma skin cancers; those options are very limited. […] The mainstay of treatment for the non-melanoma skin cancers is surgical resection, and basal cell and squamous cell are the 2 most common skin cancers that exist in the United States. […] With basal cell carcinoma, hedgehog inhibitors are really our 1 drug class that we have to treat that type of cancer. […] The first FDA approval occurred, I think, about 3 years ago now, so it is still relatively new, in terms of being able to use those ICIs for basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma. […] For basal cell carcinoma, it’s primarily in the second line.
  • #1 Therapeutic Approaches for Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer: Standard of Care and Emerging Modalities
    https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/25/13/7056
    Surgical excision is still the most prevalent therapeutic approach in individuals who present with NMSC. Late-stage NMSC patients, however, often are not candidates for surgery and have significant rates of post-surgical recurrence if they are surgical candidates. Recent studies aim to solve this problem by developing targeted therapeutics and immunotherapy. Researchers have identified dysregulated intracellular signaling pathways in NMSCs for this purpose. The hedgehog protein signaling pathway has been identified as a target for BCC, and the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) has emerged as a target for cSCC. Immunotherapy studies have progressed in treating systemic disease by applying immuno-checkpoint inhibitors targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway and CTLA-4. The development of treatments with the highest efficacy and fewest adverse effects will necessitate continued research for years to come. This review aims to provide a comprehensive exploration of the traditional and the latest therapeutic approaches in the treatment of NMSCs.
  • #1 Trends in the Management of Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers
    https://www.cancernetwork.com/view/trends-management-non-melanoma-skin-cancers
    A recent review article highlighted developments in the treatment of non-melanoma skin cancers, from new chemoprevention agents to telemedicine. […] Various trends in the prevention and treatment of non-melanoma skin cancer-from new chemoprevention agents to the role of telemedicine-were highlighted in a recent review published in the journal Current Opinion in Pharmacology. […] Improving access to care, treatment of actinic keratoses, sun protection and chemoprevention in high-risk groups, and newer therapies for advanced cancers are all poised to make a big difference. […] I will be eagerly watching to see new data on medicines for prevention, particularly the over-the-counter nicotinamide, which has shown very promising results in an Australian trial for patients with multiple keratinocyte carcinomas, she said.
  • #1 Treating Basal & Squamous Cell Skin Cancer | Squamous Cell Treatment | American Cancer Society
    https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/basal-and-squamous-cell-skin-cancer/treating.html
    If youve been diagnosed with basal or squamous cell skin cancer, your treatment team will discuss your options with you. Its important to weigh the benefits of each treatment option against the possible risks and side effects. […] Based on the type and stage of the cancer and other factors, your treatment options may include: Surgery for Basal and Squamous Cell Skin Cancers, Non-surgical Local Treatments for Basal and Squamous Cell Skin Cancers, Radiation Therapy for Basal and Squamous Cell Skin Cancers, Systemic Chemotherapy for Basal and Squamous Cell Skin Cancers, Targeted Therapy for Basal and Squamous Cell Skin Cancers, Immunotherapy for Advanced Basal or Squamous Cell Skin Cancers. […] Different approaches might be used to treat basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, actinic keratosis, and Bowen disease. Fortunately, most of these cancers and pre-cancers can be cured with minor surgery or other types of local treatments.
  • #2 Treatment for Skin Cancer | Cancer Council NSW
    https://www.cancercouncil.com.au/skin-cancer/treatment/
    Non-melanoma skin cancer is treated in different ways. The treatment recommended by your doctors will depend on: […] If an excision biopsy removed all the cancer, you may not need any further treatment. […] Treatment options for superficial basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in situ (Bowen’s disease) include curettage and electrodesiccation (also known as cautery), freezing, topical creams and photodynamic therapy. […] Surgery is not always used for superficial BCC and SCC in situ. It may be used if the diagnosis is uncertain or if the area of abnormal tissue does not respond to non-surgical treatments. […] Your doctor or medical oncologist will explain your treatment options, which may include surgery, radiation therapy or drug therapies such as immunotherapy, targeted therapy or chemotherapy. […] Drug therapies such as immunotherapy may be used before or after surgery for some cancers, or used instead of surgery or radiation therapy for some people.
  • #2 Skin cancer (non-melanoma) | NHS inform
    https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/cancer/cancer-types-in-adults/skin-cancer-non-melanoma/
    Surgical excision is an operation to cut out the cancer along with surrounding healthy tissue to ensure the cancer is completely removed. […] Cryotherapy uses cold treatment to destroy the cancer. It is sometimes used for non-melanoma skin cancers in their early stages. […] Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) is used to treat non-melanoma skin cancers when it’s felt there is a high risk of the cancer spreading or returning. […] Chemotherapy involves using medicines to kill cancerous cells. In the case of non-melanoma skin cancer, chemotherapy is only recommended when the tumour is contained within the top layer of the skin. […] Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is used to treat basal cell carcinoma, Bowen’s disease and actinic keratoses. […] Imiquimod cream is a treatment for basal cell carcinoma with a diameter of less than 2cm (0.8 inches). […] Radiotherapy involves using low doses of radiation to destroy the cancer. […] Electrochemotherapy is a possible treatment for non-melanoma skin cancer.
  • #2 Disease Management: Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer
    https://www.clevelandclinicmeded.com/medicalpubs/diseasemanagement/dermatology/nonmelanoma-skin-cancer/
    Five-year recurrence rates after treatment of primary BCC are 1% for MMS, 7.5% for cryotherapy, 7.7% for EDC, 8.7% for radiation therapy, and 10.1% for surgical excision. […] The primary goal in the treatment of BCC is using the most appropriate therapy for complete removal of the malignancy with the highest cure rate and least cosmetic disfigurement or functional impairment. […] An exhaustive review of all treatment modalities for SCC is beyond the scope of this publication. However, the reader should know that many treatment modalities are available for SCCs and no single technique suites every tumor. Treatment can be customized depending on the characteristics of the SCC, patient characteristics/preferences, and the experience of the physician. […] According to current AAD guidelines, EDC may be suitable for the treatment of small, low-risk, primary invasive SCC on sun-exposed skin.
  • #2 Disease Management: Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer
    https://www.clevelandclinicmeded.com/medicalpubs/diseasemanagement/dermatology/nonmelanoma-skin-cancer/
    Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) is a surgical technique utilized for the removal and complete margin assessment of skin cancer. MMS is the treatment of choice for high-risk BCC according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) and National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN). […] Radiation may be considered for the treatment of BCC when surgical intervention is impractical, contraindicated, or if the patient prefers radiation therapy. […] Vismodegib and sonidegib are oral medications that inhibit the protein smoothened in the hedgehog signaling pathway, and function as novel therapy for the down-regulation of BCC tumorigenesis. […] Topical imiquimod is an immunomodulating medication approved by the U.S. Food Drug Administration for treatment of superficial BCC of the extremities, trunk, and neck.
  • #2 Disease Management: Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer
    https://www.clevelandclinicmeded.com/medicalpubs/diseasemanagement/dermatology/nonmelanoma-skin-cancer/
    Nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC), is the most common malignancy in humans. […] Although the number of NMSC is staggering, both BCC and SCC have a better than 95% cure rate if detected and treated early. […] BCC can be effectively treated by a variety of therapeutic modalities. Among the clinical subtypes of BCC, superficial BCCs respond to most treatment options; large nodular, ulcerative or morpheaform lesions can require more aggressive therapy. […] Electrodesiccation and curettage (EDC) is a commonly employed, relatively simple and cost effective method for treatment of BCC. […] Current guidelines recommend EDC as an appropriate treatment for primary, well defined lesions, measuring 1 to 2 cm on the trunk and extremities of relatively healthy, immunocompetent patients. […] Recent guidelines recommend standard excision with a 4 mm peripheral margin to a depth of mid-subcutaneous adipose tissue for primary, low-risk BCC.
  • #2 Basal & Squamous Cell Local Treatment | Skin Cancer Local Treatments | American Cancer Society
    https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/basal-and-squamous-cell-skin-cancer/treating/other-than-surgery.html
    Cryotherapy, photodynamic therapy, topical chemotherapy, or other local treatments might be options to treat basal and squamous cell skin cancers (or pre-cancers) that haven’t spread beyond the skin. […] These are called local treatments because they only affect the area being treated. […] Cryotherapy is used most often for pre-cancerous skin conditions such as actinic keratosis. It might also be used for squamous cell carcinoma in situ (Bowen disease) or for small basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas. […] PDT can be used to treat actinic keratoses. It might also be an option to treat some small, low risk basal cell skin cancers, as well as very early forms of squamous cell cancer (known as squamous cell carcinoma in situ, or Bowen disease). […] Chemotherapy (chemo) uses drugs that kill cancer cells. Topical chemotherapy means that an anti-cancer medicine is put directly on the skin (usually in a cream or ointment) rather than being taken by mouth or given as an IV into a vein.
  • #2 The Role of Radiation Therapy in the Treatment of Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer
    https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6694/15/9/2408
    In the definitive setting, radiotherapy is considered an accepted alternative approach to surgery among patients who are medically inoperable, those who refuse surgery, and in cases where surgical excision may be associated with a poor cosmetic outcome. […] Different radiation methods—including Kilo-voltage (soft) X-rays, mega-voltage electrons, mega-voltage X-rays, and low dose rate (LDR)/high dose rate (HDR) interventional radiotherapy (brachytherapy) and proton therapy—are all accepted radiotherapy modalities for NMSC. […] In the adjuvant setting, radiotherapy is considered by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) in cases of positive tumor margins after surgical resection among patients not amenable to re-excision, and in cases with high-risk features for tumor recurrence, such as peri-neural invasion (PNI), lympho-vascular invasion (LVI), head and neck location, ill-defined borders, a rapidly growing tumor, a tumor larger than two centimeters, deep tumor invasion beyond the dermis or into deep structures (i.e., bone invasion), specific histologic features such as acantholytic, adenosquamous, metaplastic, or desmoplastic subtypes, recurrent tumors, and tumors in immunosuppressed patients.
  • #2 Skin cancer
    https://www.cancervic.org.au/cancer-information/types-of-cancer/skin_cancers_non_melanoma/treatement_for_non-melanoma_skin_cancer.html
    Cryotherapy, or cryosurgery (freezing), is a procedure that uses extreme cold (liquid nitrogen) to remove sunspots, some small BCCs and SCC in situ (Bowens disease). […] Some skin spots and superficial skin cancers can be treated with creams or gels that you apply to the skin. […] A cream called imiquimod is a type of immunotherapy that causes the body’s immune system to destroy cancer cells. […] A cream called 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) is a type of chemotherapy drug. […] Photodynamic therapy (PDT) uses a cream that kills cancer cells when a special light is applied. […] Radiation therapy uses a controlled dose of radiation to kill or damage cancer cells so they cannot grow, multiply or spread. […] Sometimes radiation therapy is also used after surgery to reduce the chance of the cancer coming back or spreading.
  • #2 Treating skin cancer without surgery | King Edward VII’s Hospital
    https://www.kingedwardvii.co.uk/health-hub/treating-skin-cancer-without-surgery
    Immune stimulating cream – called imiquimod. This cream is used to treat small basal cell carcinomas and actinic keratoses and stimulates the immune system to kill the cancer cells. This cream can cause the skin to become red, flaky and itchy. […] Photodynamic therapy – used to treat basal cell carcinomas, actinic keratoses and Bowen’s disease, this therapy involves using a cream to make the skin light sensitive and then shining a beam of light or natural sunlight onto the skin to kill cancerous cells. It may cause the skin to feel temporarily burnt. […] Radiotherapy – used in larger basal and squamous cell carcinomas. Radiotherapy kills cancer cells. It is mainly used in the early stages of the cancer or after it has started to spread and it may leave the skin feeling tender for a short while afterwards.
  • #2
    https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11912-024-01570-1
    This review provides an update on approved and emerging systemic therapies in the treatment of locally advanced or metastatic non-melanoma skin cancers (squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma, Merkel cell carcinoma). […] Many studies demonstrate the effectiveness of immunotherapy for all types of non-melanoma skin cancer. For basal cell carcinoma (BCC), hedgehog inhibitors (HHI) remain first-line but with poor tolerability. Numerous clinical trials studying both neoadjuvant and adjuvant use of anti-PD-1 and anti-PD-L1 therapies in advanced NMSC are under investigation. […] There is a growing number of systemic therapies available to treat non-melanoma skin cancers. The advent of immunotherapy has revolutionized the field and greatly improved survival compared to historical survival rates with cytotoxic chemotherapy.
  • #2
    https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11912-024-01570-1
    For non-surgical candidates, standard of care includes radiotherapy in combination with systemic therapy or systemic therapy alone if curative radiotherapy is not feasible. […] Preferred systemic regimens include cemiplimab, pembrolizumab, or a clinical trial. […] In patients who are ineligible for or have progressed on immunotherapy and clinical trials, carboplatin, paclitaxel, and cetuximab may be considered. […] Cemiplimab is a monoclonal antibody directed against programmed death 1 (PD-1). In September 2018, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved cemiplimab for treatment of mCSCC or laCSCC in patients who are not candidates for curative surgery or radiation. […] This marked the first time that the FDA officially approved any systemic therapy for advanced CSCC, for which no standard-of-care existed.
  • #2 Update in the treatment of non-melanoma skin cancers: the use of PD-1 inhibitors in basal cell carcinoma and cutaneous squamous-cell carcinoma | Journal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer
    https://jitc.bmj.com/content/10/12/e005082
    Cemiplimab is a fully human immunoglobulin G4 anti-PD-1 antibody that is approved for the treatment of metastatic CSCC or locally advanced CSCC not amenable to curative surgery or curative radiation in both Europe and the USA. […] Advanced BCC is rare but very difficult to treat. BCC can progress to locally advanced or to metastatic disease in less than 1% of patients, which has a very poor prognosis with a median survival of 814 months and a 5-year survival rate of 10%. […] Several case reports of patients with advanced BCC treated with PD-1 inhibitors have been reported, with patients achieving partial or complete responses. […] Currently, immune checkpoint inhibitors are the first-line standard of care and only approved therapy for CSCC, in both locally advanced and metastatic CSCC.
  • #2
    https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11912-024-01570-1
    Pembrolizumab is another monoclonal antibody targeting PD-1 that became the second immunotherapy agent approved for CSCC in June 2020 for patients with recurrent or mCSCC not curable by surgery or radiation. […] For laBCC not amenable to curative intent local intervention, the current standard of care is initial treatment with a hedgehog inhibitor (HHI) (either vismodegib or sonidegib). […] For mBCC, vismodegib is the initial HHI of choice. […] Cemiplimab was approved in February 2021 for treatment of laBCC in patients who already progressed through or were intolerant to HHIs. […] For mMCC, standard therapy includes anti PD-1 therapy (avelumab, pembrolizumab, nivolumab, or retifanlimab).
  • #2 Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer: Staging and Treatment | OncoLink
    https://www.oncolink.org/cancers/skin/non-melanoma-skin-cancers/non-melanoma-skin-cancer-staging-and-treatment
    Targeted therapies are medications that target something specific to the cancer cells, stopping them from growing and dividing. Examples of targeted therapies for non-melanoma skin cancer are: Vismodegib (Erivedge), Sonidegib (Odomzo), Cetuximab (Erbitux). […] Immunotherapy is the use of medications that stimulate (rev up) the immune system to attack and kill cancer cells. Some immunotherapy medications used to treat non-melanoma skin cancer are: Cemiplimab (Libtayo) and Pembrolizumab (Keytruda). […] You may be offered a clinical trial as part of your treatment plan. To find out more about current clinical trials, visit the OncoLink Clinical Trials Matching Service.
  • #2 Non-melanoma skin cancer: Learn More – What are the treatment options for non-melanoma skin cancer? – InformedHealth.org – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK321128/
    When considering the treatment options, many people place a lot of importance on avoiding scars as much as possible. Medication may then be an alternative to surgery for the treatment of non-melanoma skin cancer affecting only the top layer of skin. […] A new drug called vismodegib can be used in the treatment of advanced basal cell cancer. It aims to block signals that promote the growth of cancer cells. […] Chemotherapy is considered if squamous cell carcinoma has started to spread. The medications cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil are commonly used for this purpose, in the form of an infusion (drip). Other medications are sometimes given, such as the EGFR inhibitor cetuximab. The goal of the treatment is generally no longer to get rid of the cancer, but rather to slow its growth (palliative treatment).
  • #2
    https://www.accc-cancer.org/home/learn/cancer-types/skin-cancer/advanced-non-melanoma-skin-cancers/advanced-nmsc-practices
    To help community cancer centers better diagnose and treat cutaneous non-melanoma skin cancers, ACCC has launched a new project designed to engage all members of multidisciplinary cancer care teams as well as non-oncology specialists on effective practices for supporting, treating, and managing patients with advanced non-melanoma skin cancer. […] Each type of non-melanoma skin cancer is different in terms of its biology, clinical behavior, and treatment recommendations, and requires distinct diagnostic and management considerations. […] Communication is essential in establishing referral networks and professional partnerships to facilitate the seamless coordination of care for patients with non-melanoma skin cancers. […] This project focuses on addressing the critical role of communication among specialists and members of the cancer care team through a series of interactive workshops with cancer programs and visiting expert faculty, podcasts, and a webinar designed to educate multidisciplinary care teams on supporting and treating patients, identifying barriers to care, and building awareness within the broader non-oncology community about early detection and referral of non-melanoma skin cancers and its impact on patient outcomes.
  • #2 Non-melanoma Skin Cancer | Baylor Scott & White Health
    https://www.bswhealth.com/conditions/nonmelanoma-skin-cancer
    Non-melanoma skin cancer treatment options may include: […] The Baylor Scott White Health team is experienced in detecting, identifying and removing your skin cancer lesions, including basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas. […] Your treatment plan will be determined by your care team based on age, medical history, type and stage of non-melanoma skin cancer, and personal preferences. […] Surgery […] Chemotherapy […] Radiation therapy […] Pain management […] Clinical trials (when appropriate).
  • #2 Treatment for Non-melanoma Skin Cancer | Nebraska Hematology Oncology – Cancer Care Treatment Blood Disorders Clinical Trials Lincoln Nebraska (NE)
    https://www.yourcancercare.com/types-of-cancer/skin-cancer/treatment-for-non-melanoma-skin-cancer
    The development of more effective cancer treatments requires that new and innovative therapies be evaluated with cancer patients. […] Patients may gain access to better treatments by participating in a clinical trial. […] Aldara was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of actinic keratoses, as well as the treatment of certain patients with small, superficial basal cell carcinoma. […] Photodynamic therapy involves the use of a drug (generally one that is applied directly to the skin) that collects in cells and makes them sensitive to particular wavelengths of light. […] Interferon-alfa is a drug that stimulates the immune system to fight cancer cells.
  • #2 Ranking the 7 Best Treatments for Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer – Sensus Healthcare
    https://sensushealthcare.com/non-melanoma-skin-cancer-treatments/
    Non-melanoma skin cancers, primarily comprising basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), represent the most common types of skin cancer. Fortunately, advancements in dermatological treatments offer various effective options for managing these conditions. Well delve into the current non-melanoma skin cancer treatments, ranking them based on their efficacy, invasiveness and recovery periods. […] SRT takes the lead in our ranking due to its non-invasive nature and high efficacy, particularly in treating non-melanoma skin cancers in sensitive or cosmetically important areas. […] With cure rates comparable to surgical methods for superficial cancers and the advantage of preserving the skins appearance, SRT is redefining treatment paradigms. […] Mohs surgery is renowned for its precision and the highest cure rate among treatments for BCC and SCC, approaching 99% for new cancers and 94% for recurrent ones.
  • #2 Skin Cancer Treatment (PDQ®) – NCI
    https://www.cancer.gov/types/skin/hp/skin-treatment-pdq
    BCC and SCC are the most common forms of skin cancer and together are referred to as nonmelanoma skin cancers. This summary addresses the treatment of BCC and SCC of the skin and the related noninvasive lesion actinic keratosis. […] Treatments for squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma of the skin are described in Table 10. […] Treatment options for BCC of the skin (localized disease) include the following: Surgical excision with margin evaluation, Mohs micrographic surgery, Radiation therapy, Curettage and electrodesiccation, Cryosurgery, Photodynamic therapy, Topical fluorouracil (5-FU), Imiquimod topical therapy, Carbon dioxide laser. […] Treatment options for SCC of the skin (localized disease) include the following: Surgical excision with margin evaluation, Mohs micrographic surgery, Radiation therapy, Curettage and electrodesiccation, Cryosurgery.
  • #2 Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer – Diagnosis & Treatment | Mount Sinai – New York
    https://www.mountsinai.org/care/cancer/services/skin/what-is/non-melanoma
    Non-melanoma skin cancer is a dangerous form of skin cancer that begins in the cells of the skin. There are several types of non-melanoma skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Depending on the type of skin cancer, the treatment usually involves surgery to remove the cancer cells. […] For each of the types of non-melanoma cancers, there are low-risk and high-risk occurrences. Specific treatments will be based on the level of risk for recurrence. […] Most BCCs are treated with one of the following localized procedures: Mohs surgery, Excisional surgery, Radiation therapy, Photodynamic therapy (light), Topical therapies, Cryosurgery (killing cancer cells by freezing them), Electrodesiccation (using electricity to scrape cancer cells away). […] On rare occasions, BCC might continue to grow despite surgery and radiation therapy. Even rarer, BCCs can metastasize to other parts of the body, such as the lungs. If this occurs, more advanced treatment is required such as medical treatment, vismodegib (Erivedge), which is approved by the FDA.
  • #2 Therapeutic Approaches for Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer: Standard of Care and Emerging Modalities
    https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/25/13/7056
    cSCC is predominantly managed through surgical excision and histopathologic scrutiny, achieving remarkable cure rates of up to 95%. Initial management of early-stage cSCC predominantly relies on surgical resection, boasting a meager recurrence rate of approximately 4.6% and negligible metastatic potential. High-risk cSCCs are best managed with micrographically controlled surgery (MCS), which minimizes the removal of uninvolved tissue and provides a thorough margin inspection. […] In scenarios where surgery is not indicated, radiation therapy emerges as a viable alternative. Radiotherapy offers compelling outcomes, showcasing high cure rates particularly in early-stage cSCC. Although these standard-of-care methods are effective, they are often invasive and may lead to considerable scarring and fibrosis. Alternatively, the management of cSCC includes various physical treatment options such as laser therapies, cryotherapy, curettage, and photodynamic therapy. Among these, photodynamic therapy (PDT) utilizes a photosensitizer along with light exposure in an oxygen-rich environment to eliminate cancer cells. Over the past twenty years, PDT has developed into an effective treatment method for NMSCs including superficial and thin nodular BBC and in situ cSCC.
  • #2 Skin Cancer Treatment (PDQ®) – NCI
    https://www.cancer.gov/types/skin/hp/skin-treatment-pdq
    Treatment options for actinic keratosis (not listed hierarchically) include the following: Topical agents (Fluorouracil (5-FU), Imiquimod cream, Diclofenac sodium 3% gel, Ingenol mebutate), Chemical peels (Trichloroacetic acid), Surgery (Surgical excision, Shave excision, Curettage with or without electrodesiccation, Dermabrasion), Photodynamic therapy, Laser therapy (carbon dioxide or erbium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet [Er:YAG] laser).
  • #2 Trends in the Management of Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers
    https://www.cancernetwork.com/view/trends-management-non-melanoma-skin-cancers
    A recent review article highlighted developments in the treatment of non-melanoma skin cancers, from new chemoprevention agents to telemedicine. […] Various trends in the prevention and treatment of non-melanoma skin cancer-from new chemoprevention agents to the role of telemedicine-were highlighted in a recent review published in the journal Current Opinion in Pharmacology. […] Improving access to care, treatment of actinic keratoses, sun protection and chemoprevention in high-risk groups, and newer therapies for advanced cancers are all poised to make a big difference. […] I will be eagerly watching to see new data on medicines for prevention, particularly the over-the-counter nicotinamide, which has shown very promising results in an Australian trial for patients with multiple keratinocyte carcinomas, she said.
  • #2 Superficial Radiation Therapy Maryland
    https://midatlanticskinsurgery.com/non-melanoma-skin-cancer-treatment/
    Mid-Atlantic Skin Surgery Institute Blog Blog SRT Has a Nearly 99% Cure Rate of Skin Non-Melanoma Cancer non-melanoma skin cancer maryland […] In the past, treatment for non-melanoma skin cancer was limited to surgery, which meant incisions, anesthesia, and possible scarring. More recently, evidence has shown SRT (Superficial Radiation Therapy) to be an extremely effective non-surgical alternative. […] In fact, based on a 5-year study, SRT proves an almost 99% cure rate of non-melanoma skin cancer. […] Superficial radiation therapy, commonly referred to as SRT, is a non-surgical treatment for skin cancer that uses x-rays to selectively target malignancy, without damaging deep tissue. […] According to results from a 5-year retrospective study, led by Sensus Healthcare, Inc., SRT can achieve a 98.9% cure rate for non-melanoma skin cancers, including squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma.