Emerging Treatments in the Management of Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer

Authors

• Brianna Kay, University of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Dermatology

Advisor

Dr. Sarah Bolander

Abstract

Healthcare is increasingly shifting toward a patient-centered model in which treatment decisions are guided by patient needs, values, and preferences. The growing impact of nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) on patients, clinicians, and the healthcare system underscores the importance of effective treatment strategies. Surgical resection has long been considered the gold standard for NMSC due to its high cure rates and ability to confirm complete lesion clearance. Nevertheless, clinical, anatomical, and patient-specific factors may limit the suitability of surgery in certain cases. This highlights the need for noninvasive therapies that achieve comparable high clearance rates while providing reliable diagnostic confirmation.

Image-guided superficial radiation therapy (IG-SRT) is the first non-surgical option to meet this surgical benchmark. It uses high-resolution imaging and targeted radiation delivery to precisely treat the tumor. Tumor-specific risk factors guide patient eligibility and treatment planning. IG-SRT expands treatment options for patients who are not candidates for surgery or who wish to minimize procedural risk while preserving cosmetic outcomes.

Dermatology clinicians must guide patients through complex NMSC treatment decisions, balancing efficacy, safety, and individual preferences. This review aims to support evidence-based, patient-centered care by providing clinicians with the most up-to-date information needed to guide individualized treatment planning and engage patients in shared decision-making for the management of NMSC.

Recommended Citation

Kay B. Emerging Treatments in the Management of Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2026; 8(1).