Current status of skin cancers with a focus on immunology and immunotherapy

Mahsa Khayyati Kohnehshahri1,2, Aila Sarkesh3, Leila Mohamed Khosroshahi4

  • 1Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran.

PubMed

Insights

Skin cancer, including melanoma and non-melanoma types, is increasing globally. Immunotherapy with monoclonal antibodies offers effective treatment strategies for various skin cancers.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Immunology
  • Dermatology

Background:

  • Skin cancer, a prevalent malignancy, arises from UV-induced DNA damage.
  • Melanoma skin cancer (MSC) is the deadliest form, while non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) includes basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).
  • Rising incidence, linked to an aging population, strains public health resources.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the epidemiology of skin cancer.
  • To explore the immunological aspects of skin cancer development and treatment.
  • To discuss current and emerging therapeutic approaches for skin cancer.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of epidemiological data on skin cancer incidence.
  • Analysis of immunological mechanisms underlying skin cancer.
  • Examination of therapeutic strategies, focusing on monoclonal antibodies.

Main Results:

  • Skin cancer incidence is increasing, particularly NMSC in aging populations.
  • Monoclonal antibodies have emerged as significant therapeutics in skin cancer treatment.
  • Over six monoclonal antibodies are FDA-approved and demonstrate success in treating skin cancers.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding skin cancer epidemiology and immunology is crucial for effective management.
  • Immunotherapy, especially using monoclonal antibodies, represents a major advancement in skin cancer treatment.
  • Continued research into therapeutic approaches is vital for combating the growing burden of skin cancer.

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