Phototherapies mediated by metallic nanoparticles and near‐infrared radiation in skin cancer: A systematic review

Abstract

Skin cancer remains one of the most prevalent malignancies worldwide, with increasing incidence rates for both melanoma and non‐melanoma subtypes. In this context, nanotechnology‐based phototherapies have emerged as promising therapeutic strategies. This systematic review aimed to analyze the therapeutic potential of metallic nanoparticles (MNPs) for photodynamic therapy (PDT) and photothermal therapy (PTT) in skin cancer treatment. Three databases were consulted—Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed; the studies were transferred to the Zotero software, where they were analyzed by the authors according to the predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Most of the studies found focus on melanoma. In vitro findings demonstrated significant reductions in cell viability following combined MNPs and near‐infrared (NIR) irradiation, predominantly mediated by apoptosis and associated with increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and temperature elevation (△ T ). In vivo studies confirmed enhanced tumor suppression with combined therapy compared to isolated treatments. Although temperature increments were lower in vivo than in vitro, therapeutic efficacy remained significant. Safety assessments indicated no relevant changes in body weight or histopathological alterations in major organs, suggesting low systemic toxicity. Collectively, ROS generation and photothermally induced hyperthermia represent key mechanisms driving tumor regression. Therefore, MNPs thus emerge as promising and biocompatible photoactive agents for skin cancer treatment with NIR association.