Effective treatment of skin cancer: A Synthesis of Findings from 23 Studies

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Original Abstract of the Article

Major Research Findings

Research shows that there are several effective methods for treating skin cancer. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) and imiquimod cream are promising treatment options for preventing skin cancer in individuals with precancerous skin lesions. 7 . Additionally, a randomized controlled trial indicated that PDT can be effective for treating nodular basal cell carcinoma (nBCC), a type of skin cancer, with results comparable to surgical excision. 5 . The study also suggested that PDT could be a viable alternative to surgery for treating nBCC. 17 .

Surgical excision remains the most common treatment for keratinocyte skin cancers, but incomplete excision rates are higher than what current guidelines suggest. 19 . It's important to note that a multi-professional approach is essential for managing non-metastatic squamous cell carcinoma, the second most common skin cancer, as it can spread to other parts of the body. 6 . While surgical excision is the first-line treatment, other options like radiation therapy, cryotherapy, and medication like 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) are also available depending on the specific case. 10 , 15 , 20 A comprehensive review of topical treatments for skin cancer, including imiquimod, 5-fluorouracil, diclofenac, and others, highlights the potential benefits of topical therapies. 8 . Furthermore, research shows that immune checkpoint blockade might be a significant breakthrough in the treatment of advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. 23 . However, more research is needed to fully understand its effectiveness compared to other treatment options. While UV phototherapy is often used to treat vitiligo, there's still debate about its impact on skin cancer risk. 22 .

Treatment Summary

Treatment for skin cancer depends on the type, stage, and location of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. Common treatments include surgical excision, photodynamic therapy (PDT), topical treatments like imiquimod cream, radiation therapy, cryotherapy, and medications such as 5-fluorouracil. 19 , 10 , 15 , 20 .

Benefits and Risks

Benefits Summary

Early detection and appropriate treatment of skin cancer are vital for improving patient survival rates. Treatments like surgery and radiation therapy can effectively control the local spread of skin cancer. 6 , 10 .

Risks Summary

Skin cancer treatments may have side effects. Surgical procedures can lead to bleeding or infection. Radiation therapy can cause skin irritation and pigmentation changes. Medication might cause nausea and digestive problems. 10 , 21 . Furthermore, photodynamic therapy can cause pain and inflammation. 8 , 7 .

Comparison of Studies

Commonalities

Most studies emphasize the importance of sun protection to prevent skin cancer. Early detection and prompt treatment are also crucial for successful outcomes. 11 .

Differences

The effectiveness of different treatment methods and the risk of side effects may vary across studies. Therefore, it's essential to research information independently and discuss treatment options thoroughly with a doctor to determine the best course of action. 19 , 10 .

Consistency and Inconsistencies in Results

Research on skin cancer treatment often yields diverse findings, making it challenging to definitively evaluate the effectiveness and safety of specific treatments. However, continued research offers hope for the development of even more effective and safer therapies.

Practical Applications and Precautions

Preventing skin cancer involves minimizing sun exposure. Using sunscreen, hats, and umbrellas can protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Regular skin self-exams are essential for detecting any abnormal changes. Consult a doctor immediately if you notice any concerning changes on your skin. 11 .

Limitations of Current Research

There are still many unanswered questions about skin cancer treatment. Further research is necessary, particularly in developing novel therapies and evaluating the effectiveness and safety of existing treatments.

Future Research Directions

Future research should focus on developing more effective and safer treatments, as well as discovering new methods for preventing and early detecting skin cancer. 21 .

Conclusion

Skin cancer is treatable, especially when detected and treated early. Protect yourself from the sun by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure. Regularly check your skin for any unusual changes, and seek medical attention promptly if you notice anything suspicious. Continued research offers hope for even more effective and safe treatments in the future.

Treatment List

The following are common treatments for skin cancer:

  • Surgical excision
  • Photodynamic therapy (PDT)
  • Topical treatments such as imiquimod cream
  • Radiation therapy
  • Cryotherapy
  • Medications like 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)
Literature analysis of 23 papers
Positive Content
21
Neutral Content
1
Negative Content
1
Article Type
7
5
15
9
21
1.

Systemic treatments for metastatic cutaneous melanoma.

Author: CrosbyT, FishR, ColesB, MasonM D

Improved understanding of metastatic cutaneous melanoma treatment

Treatment for advanced melanoma, a type of skin cancer, is often ineffective, and the goal is typically to manage symptoms rather than cure the disease. While many medications are used, often in combination, it is unclear if they provide better results than standard supportive care or a placebo.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

2.

Photodynamic therapy of multiple nonmelanoma skin cancers with verteporfin and red light-emitting diodes: two-year results evaluating tumor response and cosmetic outcomes.

Author: LuiHarvey, HobbsLori, TopeWhitney D, LeePeter K, ElmetsCraig, ProvostNathalie, ChanAgnes, NeyndorffHerma, SuXiang Yao, JainHem, HamzaviIltefat, McLeanDavid, BissonnetteRobert

Effective treatment for nonmelanoma skin cancer
Possible pain at treated sites

Verteporfin photodynamic therapy demonstrated treatment benefit for patients with multiple nonmelanoma skin cancers. A single course resulted in histopathologic response rates ranging from 69% to 93%, with clinical complete response rates ranging from 51% to 95% at 24 months.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Clinical Trial, Phase IIA Phase II trial is a trial that further evaluates the efficacy and safety of a new drug or treatment, whose safety has been confirmed to some extent in a Phase I trial, in a small number of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Multicenter StudyResearch conducted in collaboration with multiple research institutions. It aims to collect a wide range of data and obtain more generalizable results.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

3.

Facial resurfacing for nonmelanoma skin cancer prophylaxis.

Author: HantashBasil M, StewartDaniel B, CooperZachary A, RehmusWingfield E, KochR James, SwetterSusan M

AK reduction
Skin cancer prophylaxis
None mentioned

Facial skin resurfacing with fluorouracil, trichloroacetic acid peel, or carbon dioxide laser resulted in a significant reduction in actinic keratoses (AKs) and a lower incidence of new nonmelanoma skin cancers compared to controls. All three modalities warrant further study in a larger trial.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

4.

Interventions for basal cell carcinoma of the skin.

Author: Bath-HextallF J, PerkinsW, BongJ, WilliamsH C

Radiotherapy effective
Surgery effective
PDT follow up needed
Radiotherapy failure

This review assessed the effects of treatments for basal cell carcinoma (BCC). The review found that surgery and radiotherapy appear to be the most effective treatments with surgery showing the lowest failure rates. Although cosmetic outcomes appear good with PDT, long-term follow-up data are needed.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

5.

Fractionated 5-aminolaevulinic acid-photodynamic therapy vs. surgical excision in the treatment of nodular basal cell carcinoma: results of a randomized controlled trial.

Author: MosterdK, ThissenM R T M, NelemansP, Kelleners-SmeetsN W J, JanssenR L L T, BroekhofK G M E, NeumannH A M, SteijlenP M, KuijpersD I M

Skin cancer rates are increasing, and surgical excision (SE) is the primary treatment for nodular basal cell carcinoma (nBCC). Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an effective treatment for superficial basal cell carcinoma, but its long-term efficacy for nBCC is not yet known.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

6.

Interventions for non-metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the skin.

Author: LansburyLouise, Leonardi-BeeJo, PerkinsWilliam, GoodacreTimothy, TweedJohn A, Bath-HextallFiona J

SCC treatment

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a common type of skin cancer that, while usually treatable, can spread to other parts of the body in rare cases. The main treatment for most SCCs is surgery to remove the cancer, but other options are available depending on the type and location of the tumor. This study highlights the need for a multidisciplinary approach to managing patients with SCC, involving different healthcare professionals.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

7.

Photodynamic therapy vs. imiquimod 5% cream as skin cancer preventive strategies in patients with field changes: a randomized intraindividual comparison study.

Author: SotiriouE, ApallaZ, VraniF, LallasA, ChovardaE, IoannidesD

Safe
Well tolerated

Methyl aminolevulinate (MAL)-PDT and imiquimod cream (IMIQ) 5% were equally effective in preventing new non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs) in patients with field changes. MAL-PDT was preferred by patients.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

8.

Topical pharmacotherapy for skin cancer: part II. Clinical applications.

Author: MicaliGiuseppe, LacarrubbaFrancesco, NascaMaria Rita, FerraroSalvatore, SchwartzRobert A

Topical treatments
Skin cancer

This review examined the use of topical treatments for skin cancer, including 5-fluorouracil, imiquimod, diclofenac, ingenol mebutate, retinoids, resiquimod, piroxicam, dobesilate, and betulinic acid. The effectiveness of these treatments depends on the type, size, and location of the cancer as well as the patient's adherence to treatment. Careful selection of patients is important to achieve complete removal of the cancer.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

9.

A plant-derived anti-nociceptive spray for reduction of pain with photodynamic therapy.

Author: AnselineWilliam, GroseDouglas, SmithPeter, MurrayStephen, MessiehAlfonse, BillingTania

Effective for acne
Effective for skin cancer
Skin cancer treatment
Burning pain

Photodynamic therapy is helpful for treating certain skin cancers and sun-damaged skin, and can also be beneficial for acne. A major limitation of this treatment is the intense burning pain patients experience during the light exposure part of the treatment.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

10.

Role of radiation therapy in non-melanoma cancers, lymphomas and sarcomas of the skin: Systematic review and best practice in 2016.

Author: FortMagali, GuetSaada, Colson-DurandLaurianne, AuzolleClaire, BelkacemiYazid

Improved RT technology
Reduced side effects
Carcinogenesis
Late radiation-induced toxicity

This review discusses the indications and benefits of radiotherapy for non-melanoma skin cancers, highlighting technological advances that have improved the treatment's safety and effectiveness.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

11.

Sun protection for preventing basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers.

Author: SánchezGuillermo, NovaJohn, Rodriguez-HernandezAndrea Esperanza, MedinaRoger David, Solorzano-RestrepoCarolina, GonzalezJenny, OlmosMiguel, GodfreyKathie, Arevalo-RodriguezIngrid

Reduced resources used

"Keratinocyte cancer" is now a preferred term for basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC), previously known as non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSC), which account for most skin cancers. These cancers are increasing due to greater sun exposure, with a worldwide incidence of 3-8%. Preventing these cancers could save significant healthcare resources. This study aims to assess the evidence for different sun protection strategies, evaluating their benefits and risks.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

12.

Cisplatin and Cetuximab Treatment for Metastatic Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Systematic Review.

Author: TrodelloCameron, PepperJon-Paul, WongMichael, WysongAshley

Improved response rates
Metastatic cSCC

Cetuximab demonstrated a higher complete response rate and a longer median disease-free survival than cisplatin in patients with metastatic cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (mSCC).

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

13.

WITHDRAWN: Systemic treatments for metastatic cutaneous melanoma.

Author: CrosbyTom, FishReg, ColesBernadette, MasonMalcolm

Melanoma treatment
Palliative care
Cost
Toxicity

Treatments for advanced melanoma, the most aggressive skin cancer, are often disappointing. Few people achieve lasting remission, and treatment focuses on relieving symptoms. While many medications are used, often in combination, it's unclear if they offer significant benefits compared to supportive care or a placebo.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

14.

Patient preferences for topical treatment of actinic keratoses: a discrete-choice experiment.

Author: KopaskerD, KwiatkowskiA, MatinR N, HarwoodC A, IsmailF, LearJ T, ThomsonJ, HasanZ, WaliG N, MilliganA, CrawfordL, AhmedI, DuffyH, ProbyC M, AllansonP F

Reduced cSCC risk
Treatment burden

Patients with actinic keratosis were willing to accept some reduction in treatment efficacy to reduce the burden of treatment and its side effects.

Clinical Trial, Phase IIA Phase II trial is a trial that further evaluates the efficacy and safety of a new drug or treatment, whose safety has been confirmed to some extent in a Phase I trial, in a small number of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Multicenter StudyResearch conducted in collaboration with multiple research institutions. It aims to collect a wide range of data and obtain more generalizable results.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

15.

A systematic review on the use of cryotherapy versus other treatments for basal cell carcinoma.

Author: Tchanque-FossuoCatherine N, EisenDaniel B

Basal cell carcinoma treatment
Cosmetic outcomes
Inferior recurrence rate

Cryotherapy alone is as effective as photodynamic therapy or surgery in the treatment of basal cell carcinoma, but less effective than radiotherapy. More studies are needed.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

16.

Topical treatments for skin cancer.

Author: CullenJason K, SimmonsJacinta L, ParsonsPeter G, BoyleGlen M

Skin cancer treatment

Skin cancer is a broad term for various types of skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma. While surgery has been the preferred treatment, topical (applied to the skin) treatments may be more suitable in some cases. This review discusses current topical treatments for skin cancer and introduces potential new treatments from natural sources.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

17.

A Randomized Trial of Broad Area ALA-PDT for Field Cancerization Mitigation in High-Risk Patients.

Author: PiacquadioDaniel, HoulihanAnna, FerdonMary Beth, BergJames E, MarcusStuart L

Reduced AKs occurrence
Reduced NMSC development

Aminolevulinic acid-photodynamic therapy (ALA-PDT) significantly reduced the occurrence of actinic keratoses (AKs) in patients at high risk of nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) after one year compared to vehicle-PDT. Two or three ALA-PDT treatments with one-hour incubation were well tolerated.

Clinical Trial, Phase IIA Phase II trial is a trial that further evaluates the efficacy and safety of a new drug or treatment, whose safety has been confirmed to some extent in a Phase I trial, in a small number of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Multicenter StudyResearch conducted in collaboration with multiple research institutions. It aims to collect a wide range of data and obtain more generalizable results.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

18.

Laser Treatment for Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Author: SharonEran, SnastIgor, LapidothMoshe, KaftoryRan, MimouniDaniel, HodakEmmilia, LeviAssi

Improved non-melanoma skin cancer treatment

The Nd:YAG laser is a safe and effective treatment option for low-risk basal cell carcinoma based on cohort studies. Further research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of CO2 lasers for non-melanoma skin cancer treatment.

Evaluation StudyResearch that systematically evaluates the effectiveness of a particular program or policy. It measures its outcomes and provides important information for future decision-making.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

19.

Incomplete surgical excision of keratinocyte skin cancers: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Author: NolanG S, KielyA L, TottyJ P, WormaldJ C R, WadeR G, ArbynM, JainA

Reduced incomplete excision
None reported

The proportion of incomplete excisions of basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) and squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) is higher than previously reported. Excisions performed by specialists may lower the risk of incomplete excision.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

20.

Intralesional 5-Fluorouracil for Treatment of Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer: A Systematic Review.

Author: MaghfourJalal, KuraitisDrew, MurinaAndrea

NMSC clearance

This systematic review of 19 studies found that intralesional fluorouracil (IL 5-FU) was effective in treating non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC), with higher clearance rates for squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC) than for keratoacanthoma (KA).

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

22.

Risk of skin cancer after ultraviolet phototherapy in patients with vitiligo: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Author: WuY-H, ChouC-L, ChangH-C

Safe vitiligo treatment
Skin cancer risk

UV phototherapy is a safe treatment for vitiligo with no significant risk of skin cancer.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

23.

Comparative efficacy analysis identifies immune checkpoint blockade as a new survival benchmark in advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma.

Author: PetzoldAnne, SteebTheresa, WesselyAnja, SchattonTobias, BerkingCarola, HepptMarkus V

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma treatment

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma is a common type of skin cancer that can spread. Treatments include immunotherapy, targeted therapies that block specific growth factors, chemotherapy, and combinations of these approaches. However, we need more research to compare how well these different treatments work.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.

Language : English

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