Dermatológia pre prax 2/2023

Non-melanoma skin cancers

The increasing incidence of skin tumors fills dermatological and surgical waiting rooms throughout Europe, including Slovakia. Up to 80% of these tumors are non-melanoma skin cancers, with basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas being the most important representatives. In over 95% of cases, their development is caused by ultraviolet radiation (UVR). It is responsible for mutations in tumor suppressor genes especially in caucasians with a light skin phototype. In immunocompromised patients, the risk of skin cancer is even higher. A correct clinical histologic diagnosis, supported by dermoscopy and consideration of defined risk factors, guides the physician to the correct therapeutic strategy. Surgical removal of non-melanoma tumors is the basic curative method of choice in 98% of cases. For superficial lesions and precancerous lesions, noninvasive therapeutic modalities may be chosen. For locally advanced or metastatic tumors, new molecules are being considered that significantly extend the lives of patients. Finally, emphasis must be placed on thorough primary and secondary prevention, which primarily includes reducing UV radiation exposure in children and adolescents and preventive skin examinations in high-risk patients.

Keywords: non-melanoma skin cancers, etiopathogenesis, clinic, diagnostic, treatment