Molecular and immune targets in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma

Justine Galambus1, Kenneth Y Tsai2,3,4

  • 1Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA.

Molecular Carcinogenesis
|August 24, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) treatment is evolving beyond surgery. This review explores promising immunotherapies and targeted therapies for advanced cSCC, focusing on driver mutations.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Dermatology
  • Cancer Research

Background:

  • Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is the second most common skin cancer.
  • While surgery is standard, advanced or metastatic cSCC requires systemic treatments.
  • Immunotherapy and targeted therapy are gaining traction for cSCC management.

Approach:

  • This review synthesizes current research on systemic therapies for cSCC.
  • It examines established and emerging immune and molecular targets.
  • Focus is placed on understanding driver mutations for targeted treatment strategies.

Key Points:

  • Identifying specific driver mutations in cSCC opens avenues for targeted drug development.
  • Immunotherapies harness the patient's immune system to fight cancer cells.
  • Investigational therapies aim to improve outcomes for unresectable or metastatic cSCC.

Conclusions:

  • Systemic therapies, particularly immunotherapies and targeted agents, represent a growing frontier in cSCC treatment.
  • Further research into molecular targets and immune responses is crucial for optimizing therapeutic strategies.
  • These approaches offer new hope for patients with advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma.

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