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Published on: August 18, 2022
Skin cancer: understanding the journey of transformation from conventional to advanced treatment approaches
Nazeer Hasan1, Arif Nadaf1, Mohammad Imran2
1Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, 110062, India.
Abstract:
Skin cancer is a global threat to the healthcare system and is estimated to incline tremendously in the next 20 years, if not diagnosed at an early stage. Even though it is curable at an early stage, novel drug identification, clinical success, and drug resistance is another major challenge. To bridge the gap and bring effective treatment, it is important to understand the etiology of skin carcinoma, the mechanism of cell proliferation, factors affecting cell growth, and the mechanism of drug resistance. The current article focusses on understanding the structural diversity of skin cancers, treatments available till date including phytocompounds, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, photothermal therapy, surgery, combination therapy, molecular targets associated with cancer growth and metastasis, and special emphasis on nanotechnology-based approaches for downregulating the deleterious disease. A detailed analysis with respect to types of nanoparticles and their scope in overcoming multidrug resistance as well as associated clinical trials has been discussed.
Insights
This study reviews skin cancer treatments, focusing on nanotechnology to overcome drug resistance. Early diagnosis and understanding cancer mechanisms are crucial for effective therapeutic strategies against this growing global health threat.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Nanomedicine
- Dermatology
Background:
- Skin cancer presents a significant and escalating global health challenge.
- Early diagnosis is critical for curability, yet drug resistance and treatment efficacy remain major hurdles.
- Understanding the molecular basis of skin cancer and its resistance mechanisms is vital for developing advanced therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of skin cancer, encompassing its structural diversity and etiological factors.
- To analyze current and emerging treatment modalities, including conventional therapies and novel approaches.
- To highlight the potential of nanotechnology in combating skin cancer and overcoming multidrug resistance.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and analysis of existing research on skin cancer.
- Exploration of various treatment strategies: phytocompounds, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, photothermal therapy, surgery, and combination therapy.
- Detailed examination of molecular targets, cancer cell proliferation, and drug resistance mechanisms.
- In-depth analysis of nanotechnology-based approaches, including nanoparticle types and their role in overcoming resistance.
Main Results:
- Skin cancer exhibits significant structural diversity, necessitating tailored treatment strategies.
- A wide array of treatments exists, from traditional methods to advanced therapies like photothermal and combination therapies.
- Nanotechnology offers promising avenues for targeted drug delivery and overcoming multidrug resistance in skin cancer.
- Clinical trials involving nanomedicine show potential for improved therapeutic outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Effective management of skin cancer requires a deep understanding of its etiology, cell proliferation, and resistance mechanisms.
- Nanotechnology-based approaches demonstrate significant potential in enhancing treatment efficacy and overcoming drug resistance.
- Further research and clinical trials are essential to fully realize the therapeutic benefits of nanomedicine in skin cancer treatment.
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