Intralesional Treatments for Invasive Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Oncology

Background:

• Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is a prevalent human cancer with metastatic potential.
• cSCC incidence is rising, particularly in the elderly, posing a significant future health challenge.
• While surgery is standard, intralesional therapies offer alternative treatment options for cSCC and keratoacanthoma (KA).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current and emerging intralesional treatment modalities for cSCC and KA.
• To discuss the selection criteria for intralesional therapies based on patient and clinical factors.
• To explore future perspectives in intralesional treatment, including immunotherapy and oncolytic viruses.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of established intralesional treatments for cSCC and KA.
• Discussion of classic agents like methotrexate, 5-fluorouracil, bleomycin, and interferon.
• Evaluation of cryosurgery, electrochemotherapy, and novel/developing therapies.

Main Results:

• Traditional intralesional drugs (methotrexate, 5-fluorouracil, bleomycin, interferon) and cryosurgery are discussed.
• Electrochemotherapy is presented as a viable intralesional option.
• Novel therapies, including immunotherapy and oncolytic viruses, show promise for future cSCC/KA management.

Conclusions:

• Intralesional therapies provide valuable alternatives to surgery for select cSCC and KA patients.
• Treatment choice is individualized, considering patient factors and clinician expertise.
• Ongoing research into novel intralesional agents and immunotherapy holds significant potential for advancing cSCC/KA treatment.