Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers in the Older Patient

• Published in: Current oncology reports Vol. 21; no. 9; pp. 79 - 9
• Main Authors: Albert, Ashley, Knoll, Miriam A., Conti, John A., Zbar, Ross I. S.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: New York Springer US 01.09.2019; Springer Nature B.V
• Subjects: Brachytherapy; Geriatric Oncology (AR MacKenzie; Life span; Medicine; Medicine & Public Health; Melanoma; Oncology; Patients; Quality of life; Section Editor; Skin cancer; Topical Collection on Geriatric Oncology; Radiation therapy; Radiotherapy; Surgery; Geriatric oncology; Non-melanoma skin cancer; Skin cancer
• ISSN: 1523-3790; 1534-6269
• DOI: 10.1007/s11912-019-0828-9

Purpose of Review The incidence of non-melanomatous skin cancer (NMSC) increases with age and there are specific considerations regarding management of NMSC for the older patient population. Here we will review current data regarding treatment considerations and options for older patients with NMSC. Recent Findings Hypofractionated regimens and high-dose brachytherapy may be non-surgical treatment options for older patients with NMSC. Other less aggressive strategies such as active surveillance can also be considered in some settings. Summary Management of NMSC in the older patient population requires a thorough assessment of comorbidities, frailty, and life expectancy. Additionally, discussions regarding goals of care and quality of life (QOL) issues are especially important in this population. Older patients with NMSC in particular may benefit from a tailored treatment plan based on current available data rather than a broad application of general treatment guidelines for NMSC.