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Current Dermatology Reports
Published in: Current Dermatology Reports 1/2014

Open Access 01-03-2014 | Epidemiology (A Armstrong, Section Editor)

Advanced Basal Cell Carcinoma: Epidemiology and Therapeutic Innovations

Authors: Shalini V. Mohan, Anne Lynn S. Chang

Published in: Current Dermatology Reports | Issue 1/2014

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Abstract

Advanced basal cell carcinomas are a subset of basal cell carcinomas that can be difficult to treat either due to their local invasiveness, proximity to vital structures, or metastasis. The incidence of all basal cell carcinoma is increasing in the United States, although it is not known whether advanced basal cell carcinomas (aBCCs) are also increasing. Recently, highly targeted therapy based on knowledge of the basal cell carcinoma pathogenesis has become available either commercially or through human clinical trials. These orally available drugs inhibit the Hedgehog signaling pathway, and lead to advanced basal cell carcinoma shrinkage that can enable preservation of adjacent vital organs. In this review, we outline the role of Hedgehog pathway inhibitors as well as other treatment modalities such as excision, radiotherapy and more traditional chemotherapy in treating advanced basal cell carcinomas. We also highlight current gaps in knowledge regarding the use and side effects of this targeted therapy.
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Metadata
Title
Advanced Basal Cell Carcinoma: Epidemiology and Therapeutic Innovations
Authors
Shalini V. Mohan
Anne Lynn S. Chang
Publication date
01-03-2014
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Current Dermatology Reports / Issue 1/2014
Electronic ISSN: 2162-4933
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s13671-014-0069-y

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