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Updated: May 12, 2026
09:37
Combining Reflectance Confocal Microscopy with Optical Coherence Tomography for Noninvasive Diagnosis of Skin Cancers via Image Acquisition
Published on: August 18, 2022
Advanced basal cell carcinoma
1Department of Dermatology and Allergology, Academic Teaching Hospital Dresden-Friedrichstadt, Germany. uwollina@gmail.com
Wiener Medizinische Wochenschrift (1946)
|April 17, 2013
Summary
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC), a common skin cancer, is primarily caused by UV exposure. Advanced BCC treatments now include targeted therapies alongside surgery, with ongoing research into combinations for better outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Oncology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most prevalent skin malignancy globally.
- Ultraviolet (UV) light exposure is a primary external factor contributing to BCC development and a target for prevention.
- Advanced BCC, encompassing locally advanced and metastatic tumors, presents a poorer prognosis than earlier stages.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current treatment modalities for basal cell carcinoma (BCC).
- To highlight advancements in targeted therapies for advanced BCC.
- To discuss the role of surgery and future research directions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) treatment strategies.
- Analysis of established and emerging therapies for advanced BCC.
- Evaluation of surgical techniques and novel drug development.
Main Results:
- Mohs micrographic surgery remains the gold standard for BCC treatment.
- Targeted therapies, including those inhibiting sonic hedgehog and epidermal growth factor receptor pathways, offer new options for advanced BCC.
- Radiotherapy was a previous alternative for unresectable tumors.
Conclusions:
- Treatment for advanced basal cell carcinoma (BCC) has evolved with the introduction of targeted therapies.
- Complete response rates with current systemic therapies are limited.
- Future research should focus on combining novel small molecules with surgical interventions to improve BCC treatment outcomes.
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