At least 1 million new cases of nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) are diagnosed in the United States each year and the incidence is increasing. A higher incidence of NMSC in organ transplant recipients on immunosuppression has been documented for some time, and recent studies indicate that patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), particularly those treated with immunosuppressive medications, might also be at higher risk for this condition. In this review we summarize recent data evaluating the associations between immunomodulators, antitumor necrosis factor-α biologic agents and NMSC in patients with IBD and other autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. We also offer recommendations for prevention of NMSC in these populations.
Copyright © 2010 Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America, Inc.