How effective is immunotherapy for squamous cell skin cancer?

Most squamous cell skin cancers are managed with treatments directed at the skin, such as surgery or radiotherapy. Immunotherapy is generally discussed when the cancer has spread, returned repeatedly or cannot be treated adequately with those approaches. It helps the immune system recognise abnormal cells rather than directly removing a visible lesion.

The team assesses the skin, nearby lymph nodes and any affected organs, using examination and imaging when needed. A lesion may shrink, stop growing or continue to change. Treatment can cause immune-related inflammation, including skin rash, bowel symptoms, lung inflammation or changes in hormone glands.

Ask whether surgery, radiotherapy or another local approach remains suitable, and why immunotherapy is being recommended. Tell the team about previous skin treatments, organ transplant, autoimmune disease and medicines that suppress immunity. Photographing a changing lesion can help with review, but do not delay an appointment if it bleeds, ulcerates or changes quickly. Keep every scheduled assessment.

Seek prompt advice for a rapidly changing or bleeding lesion, new swelling near the tumour, fever, severe diarrhoea, widespread rash, new cough or breathlessness. Emergency care is needed for severe breathing difficulty, fainting or confusion.

Why is immunotherapy preferred over local treatment for me? What changes should I expect at the skin site? How will response be checked? Could my transplant or autoimmune condition affect treatment?