Lymph node metastasis from non-melanoma skin cancer

Abstract

The management of non-melanoma skin cancers metastatic to the neck is challenging due to variability in biological behavior and patterns of regional lymphatic spread. Metastatic non-melanoma skin cancers to the parotid and neck often behave aggressively, with a high incidence of local recurrence after treatment and reduced five-year survival outcomes. Patterns of lymphatic spread are different from those seen in mucosal squamous cell carcinoma, with higher prevalence of disease in the parotid and superficial lymphatics. These factors require that treatment is individualized to achieve optimal outcomes. Traditionally, the management of non-melanoma skin cancers metastatic to lymph nodes has involved surgical excision followed by adjuvant radiation therapy. However, novel systemic therapies are showing promising results and their role in the management of these cancers is evolving