Impact of UV Modifying Factors on the Incidence of Keratinocyte Carcinomas in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients: a Systematic Review

Abstract

Introduction: Solid organ transplant recipients (SOTR) are at an increased risk for developing keratinocyte carcinomas (KC). Four ultraviolet (UV) modifying factors have been identified that impact the incidence of KC: Fitzpatrick Skin Type (FST), race, sun exposure, and sun-protective factors. Objectives: We conducted a systematic review to summarize the association between UV modifying factors and the incidence of KC in SOTR. Methods: We systematically searched PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, and after screening for inclusion and exclusion criteria, we included 13 studies with 6,910 solid organ transplant recipients in our analysis. Results: Our review found that lower FST (I-II), white and Latinx populations, lack of regulated sunscreen application, and occupational and residential sun exposure are individual risk factors among solid organ transplant recipients for KC incidence. Although previous studies showed an increased SCC:BCC ratio, some studies found a contradictory increased BCC:SCC ratio. Limitations include few research studies that analyze these UV modifying factors and a lack of incorporating both varying immunosuppressant factors and transplantation follow-up times. Conclusions: These findings support the need for dermatological advice in increased risk patient demographic populations, lower FST and white and Latinx populations, and subsequently moderating sun exposure and protective factors.