Advances in Targeted and Immunotherapy for High-Risk Cutaneous Malignancies

Amy J Petty1, Drew A Emge1, Adela R Cardones1

  • 1Division of Dermatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66103, USA.

Oncology Research
|March 9, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Immunotherapy is revolutionizing skin cancer treatment, offering new hope for advanced basal cell carcinoma (BCC), cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC), and melanoma. This review details advancements, mechanisms, and future directions in dermatologic immunotherapy.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatologic Oncology
  • Immunotherapy
  • Cutaneous Malignancies

Background:

  • Skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma (BCC), cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC), and melanoma, is a global health concern.
  • Advanced or metastatic skin cancers present significant treatment challenges with limited therapeutic options.
  • Immunotherapy has emerged as a transformative approach in treating various cancers, including skin malignancies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent advancements in immunotherapeutic strategies for BCC, cSCC, and melanoma.
  • To synthesize current evidence and ongoing clinical trials for immunotherapy in these skin cancers.
  • To explore mechanisms of immune response and potential biomarkers for predicting treatment efficacy.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent advancements in immunotherapy for skin cancer.
  • Synthesis of current evidence from clinical trials.
  • Exploration of molecular mechanisms and biomarkers related to immunotherapy response.

Main Results:

  • Immunotherapy has significantly advanced the treatment landscape for BCC, cSCC, and melanoma.
  • Understanding immune responsiveness and biomarkers is crucial for optimizing treatment outcomes.
  • Ongoing clinical trials continue to expand the role of immunotherapy in dermatologic oncology.

Conclusions:

  • Immunotherapy represents a major therapeutic innovation in dermatologic oncology.
  • The integration of immunotherapy signifies a move towards precision medicine in treating skin cancers.
  • Further research into immunotherapy's role, limitations, and future directions is essential for patient care.

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