Management of cutaneous and extracutaneous side effects of smoothened inhibitor therapy for advanced basal cell carcinoma

Abstract

Smoothened inhibitors represent the first class of targeted drugs approved for use in advanced and metastatic basal cell carcinoma. For many patients with limited treatment options, this drug class has led to significant clinical improvements, but is not without side effects. In this review, we outline the basic mechanism of smoothened inhibitors and the most commonly observed cutaneous and extracutaneous side effects. We also highlight possible mechanisms for these adverse events and current management strategies.