Topical pharmacotherapy for skin cancer: part I. Pharmacology.

Abstract

Topical pharmacotherapy represents an effective alternative treatment for superficial skin cancer, primarily actinic keratoses and basal cell carcinomas. We provide an in-depth analysis of the pharmacologic aspects of available topical drugs for the treatment of primary skin tumors. In particular, we evaluate the mechanisms of action, formulations and indications, side effects, and contraindications of 5-fluorouracil, imiquimod, diclofenac, ingenol mebutate, and retinoids. Moreover, the characteristics of some investigational molecules (ie, resiquimod, piroxicam, dobesilate, and betulinic acid) are presented.