Neoadjuvant Approaches to Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer

Neoadjuvant Cetuximab Leading to a Complete Pathologic Response in Locally Advanced Lip Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Vermillion lip squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a rare cancer, currently grouped together with the cutaneous lip under the cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) system. Herein, we present a case of an 81-year-old male with locally advanced lower lip SCC involving the vermillion who achieved a complete pathologic response to neoadjuvant cetuximab after the failure of the programed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) inhibitor, cemiplimab. He was followed with clinical observation, with special attention to skin/mucosal surfaces. At the 24-week follow-up visit, he had no signs of recurrence and was very content with the surgical and cosmetic outcome. To our knowledge, there have been no documented cases of successful use of cetuximab as a neoadjuvant treatment for cSCC of the vermilion lip to date. This case highlights the potential role of cetuximab in this setting, where we believe clinical trials are warranted.

Natural Compounds in Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer: Prevention and Treatment

The elevated occurrence of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) and the adverse effects associated with available treatments adversely impact the quality of life in multiple dimensions. In connection with this, there is a necessity for alternative approaches characterized by increased tolerance and lower side effects. Natural compounds could be employed due to their safety profile and effectiveness for inflammatory and neoplastic skin diseases. These anti-cancer drugs are often derived from natural sources such as marine, zoonotic, and botanical origins. Natural compounds should exhibit anti-carcinogenic actions through various pathways, influencing apoptosis potentiation, cell proliferation inhibition, and metastasis suppression. This review provides an overview of natural compounds used in cancer chemotherapies, chemoprevention, and promotion of skin regeneration, including polyphenolic compounds, flavonoids, vitamins, alkaloids, terpenoids, isothiocyanates, cannabinoids, carotenoids, and ceramides.