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Updated: Aug 31, 2025

Intramucosal Inoculation of Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells in Mice for Tumor Immune Profiling and Treatment Response Assessment
Published on: April 22, 2019
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.
Abstract:
Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is the second most common skin cancer and often confers a good prognosis. Though surgery is the gold standard of treatment, unresectable or metastatic disease can necessitate systemic therapy. Of systemic agents, there is increasing interest in the use of immunotherapies and targeted therapy. Further study into the driver mutations in cSCC has identified opportunities for targeted therapy. In this review, we discuss both current and investigational immune and molecular targets of therapy for cSCC.
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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