The Role of Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy in the Treatment of Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer
Main Article Content
Keywords
nonmelanoma skin cancer, skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, BCC, SCC, superficial radiation therapy, SRT, image-guided superficial radiation therapy, IGSRT
Abstract
Background: Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma, collectively referred to as nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) are the most common type of skin cancer and can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. There are several treatment options available for NMSC including superficial radiation therapy (SRT), which has improved in recent years with the addition of image guidance (IGSRT). In some cases, patients are not offered IGSRT as a treatment option and additional guidance on its benefits may be beneficial.
Objective: For a panel of expert dermatologists to review published studies on IGSRT for the treatment NMSC and create consensus recommendations on its use.
Methods: A comprehensive literature search of PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Google Scholar was completed for English-language original research articles on the use of IGSRT to treat NMSC. A panel of six dermatologists with significant expertise in treating NMSC convened to review the articles and create consensus statements based on the available data. A modified Delphi process was used to approve each statement for adoption and a strength of recommendation was assigned using Strength of Recommendation Taxonomy (SORT) criteria.
Results: After screening the articles that met the initial search criteria, 12 articles were distributed to the panelists for review prior to the roundtable discussion. The panel unanimously voted to adopt eight statements with an additional two statements receiving five out six votes for adoption. Eight of the statements received a strength of recommendation of “A” while two of the statements were given a strength of recommendation of “B” based on SORT criteria.
Conclusion: IGSRT is a safe and effective treatment for NMSC that often results in highly favorable cosmetic outcomes. It can be considered a first-line treatment option for appropriately selected cases of NMSC.
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