Abstract
Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) and melanoma encompass the majority of all
malignant skin cancers. There has been an increase in their incidence globally in
recent decades. In cases of high-risk, unresectable, or metastatic disease; or when
patient factors or preferences limit the availability of conventional surgery or radiotherapy;
or a systemic therapy is often warranted. Our improved understanding of the molecular
and immune pathogenesis underlying tumor growth and development has been critical
in advancing cancer therapeutics. Over the past several years, several new systemic
agents have been approved for both diseases. The role of cytotoxic chemotherapy is
gradually waning with the introduction of targeted therapy and immunotherapy. In this
article, we review the current and relevant literature and evidence of cytotoxic chemotherapy,
targeted therapy, and immune checkpoint inhibitors in the adjuvant and neoadjuvant
settings for cSCC and melanoma. Additionally, we describe their role in the unresectable
or metastatic disease setting.
Keywords
cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma - melanoma - chemotherapy - targeted therapy - immunotherapy
