Friday, 7 September 2007, 12.00-14.00
University Zurich-Irchel, Room: Hörsaal (Lecture Hall) 24-G-45

Introduction

There is a dramatic increase in the frequency of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC). In several countries NMSC represents the most frequently observed type of cancer. Solar/ultraviolet radiation is certainly the predominant pathogenic factor for squamous cell carcinoma. In basal cell carcinoma additional mechanisms appear to be involved. Because of the high and still increasing frequency of NMSC there is quite a need for new therapeutic strategies. A better understanding of the pathogenesis is certainly the key for the development of new therapeutic approaches. Gene analysis with mutation profliling will definitely have a tremendous input in the understanding of the basic mechanisms of carcinogenesis. In addition, there is increasing evidence that the connective tissue can have quite an impact on the course of NMSC. The same applies for the inflammatory and immune response of the host. Therefore, this symposium will focus on new developments and trends in the pathogenesis of NMSC with special emphasis on genetic alterations, the interaction with the connective tissue and the impact of the immune response.

Program

Chairs: T. Schwarz (Kiel), R. Dummer (Zürich)