Consensus Guidelines on the Use of Superficial Radiation Therapy for Treating Nonmelanoma Skin Cancers and Keloids

摘要

>Background: The use of superficial radiation therapy (SRT) has experienced a renaissance for treating nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSCs) and recurrent keloids; however, published treatment guidelines are lacking. >Objective: The objective of this work was to provide consensus guidelines on the use of SRT for treating NMSC and recurrent keloids based on a review of the literature and expert opinion. >Methods and Materials: A search of the medical literature was performed to obtain published information on the use of SRT for review. A group of qualified dermatologists convened to discuss their views on the use of SRT for the treatment of NMSCs and recurrent keloids. The various guidelines were considered to have consensus based on a supermajority two-thirds vote. The final consensus guidelines are thus based on the medical literature, when available, and expert opinions. >Results: Agreement on consensus guidelines was reached for numerous aspects of SRT use, including appropriate tumor types for SRT; anatomical areas suitable for SRT; energy, fractions, and scheduling recommendations for SRT; use of SRT in the presence of comorbidities; safety factors; and treatment recommendations for recurrent keloids, based the literature and on both the opinions of the expert group and a survey of experienced users. >Conclusion: Consensus was reached that SRT is a safe and effective treatment for basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas and should be considered as the first-line form of radiation treatment. Postsurgical treatment of keloid excision suture lines with SRT significantly reduces keloid recurrence rates.