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Updated: May 22, 2026

Combining Reflectance Confocal Microscopy with Optical Coherence Tomography for Noninvasive Diagnosis of Skin Cancers via Image Acquisition
Published on: August 18, 2022
Cutting edge in medical management of cutaneous oncology
Kim Chong1, Adil Daud, Susana Ortiz-Urda
1Department of Dermatology, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA. arrons@derm.ucsf.edu
Abstract:
Traditional chemotherapy has resulted in only a modest response, if any, for the 3 most common cutaneous malignancies of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Recent advances in understanding of the defects in the pathways driving tumorigenesis have changed the way that we think of these cancers and paved the way to targeted therapy for specific tumors. In this review, we will introduce the novel systemic treatments currently available for these cancers in the context of what is understood about the tumor pathogenesis. We will also introduce ongoing studies that will hopefully broaden our options for highly effective and tolerable treatment.
Insights
Targeted therapies offer new hope for common skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, improving upon limited chemotherapy responses. Ongoing research promises even more effective and tolerable systemic treatments for these malignancies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Traditional chemotherapy shows limited efficacy for basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
- Advances in understanding tumorigenesis pathways have shifted cancer treatment paradigms.
- Targeted therapy represents a novel approach for specific tumor types.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current novel systemic treatments for common cutaneous malignancies.
- To contextualize these treatments within tumor pathogenesis.
- To highlight ongoing studies for future therapeutic options.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on targeted therapies for skin cancer.
- Analysis of tumor pathogenesis in relation to treatment selection.
- Discussion of results from ongoing clinical trials.
Main Results:
- Novel systemic treatments are emerging as effective options for cutaneous malignancies.
- Understanding tumor-specific defects guides targeted therapy selection.
- Ongoing studies suggest broader and more tolerable treatment choices.
Conclusions:
- Targeted therapies are transforming the management of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
- Personalized treatment strategies based on molecular insights are crucial.
- Future research directions aim to enhance treatment efficacy and patient tolerance.
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