Topical and Intralesional Immunotherapy for the Management of Skin Cancer in Special Locations: Lips and Eyelids

SIMPLE SUMMARY: This article discusses the use of topical and intralesional immunotherapy for treating skin cancers in sensitive areas like the lips and eyelids. Surgical options might not be suitable due to potential deformities. This study reviews experiences with various topical and intralesional therapies, such as imiquimod, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), photodynamic therapy (PDT), ingenol mebutate (IM), diclofenac, intralesional methotrexate, and interferon. While the evidence is limited due to varied studies and few clinical trials, these treatments show promise with high response rates and minimal side effects for specific cases. ABSTRACT: The use of topical and intralesional immunotherapy in the treatment of cutaneous malignant neoplasia in sensitive areas such as the lips and eyelids is discussed. Surgery may not be feasible or may result in deformities in these areas, making alternative treatment options necessary. A narrative literature review was conducted using MEDLINE (PubMed) as the main literature database, collecting available evidence of experiences with various topical and intralesional therapies in the aforementioned anatomical locations, ranging from case reports to clinical trials. The clearance rates and potential adverse reactions of therapeutic options such as imiquimod 5%, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), photodynamic therapy (PDT), ingenol mebutate (IM), diclofenac, intralesional methotrexate, and interferon are reviewed. Although limited by their heterogeneity and the scarcity of clinical trials, these studies point towards promising response rates and minimal adverse effects, making these treatments viable options in selected cases.