Lasers in the Treatment of Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer

BACKGROUND Nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSCs) constitute the largest proportion of cancers worldwide, especially in the Western population, making it essential to develop methods to manage these cancers. Ultraviolet (UV) light being the most significant culprit in the development of NMSCs makes the sun-exposed parts of the body, such as face and extremities, the most vulnerable to develop these tumors. Early diagnosis and emphasis on cosmesis are vital while treating them especially, in patients with multiple squamous and basal cell carcinomas. Lasers seem to be a useful therapeutic modality and are being explored to develop them as a tool for treating skin cancers. OBJECTIVE To review the use of lasers in the treatment of NMSCs. METHODS We reviewed articles that involved the use of lasers in the management of NMSCs and prepared a critical analysis of the same. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Lasers as a single modality, as the coherent light source in photodynamic therapy (PDT), or as an adjunct to PDT or other treatment modalities are a potential method of NMSC eradication. Superficial NMSCs and most precancerous cutaneous lesions such as Bowen's disease and actinic keratoses respond best, whereas deeper, more-aggressive NMSCs show poor outcomes with laser treatments.