Radiation therapy in dermatology: Non-melanoma skin cancer

Background: Dermatologists were historically well versed in the use of radiation therapy for the management of non-melanoma skin cancers and various inflammatory dermatologic conditions. With the advent of Mohs micrographic surgery and therapeutic discoveries for treating inflammatory dermatoses, radiotherapy assumed loss of a role in the clinical repertoire of the dermatologist. In recent years, its importance has again been realized for the management of non-melanoma skin cancers not amenable to surgical treatment or as adjuvant or palliative therapy. Objective: To review the evolving use of radiation therapy in the treatment of non-melanoma skin cancer. Methods and Materials: All published literature regarding the applications of radiotherapy for the treatment of non-melanoma skin cancer were analyzed and collated. Results: A comprehensive review of radiotherapy for the treatment of non-melanoma skin cancer was outlined. Conclusion: Dermatologists should be well versed in radiation therapy in order to deliver the best possible care for patients, as radiotherapy is an important adjuvant tool for the treatment of non-melanoma skin cancer.