This comprehensive review evaluated nonexcisional treatment modalities for superficially invasive and in situ squamous cell carcinoma, including topical therapies (5-fluorouracil, imiquimod), photodynamic therapy, radiation therapy, and other alternatives to surgical excision. The analysis compared cure rates, recurrence, and cosmetic outcomes across treatment modalities, providing guidance for cases where surgery may not be the optimal approach.

Topical 5-FU and imiquimod show reasonable efficacy for SCC in situ but with higher recurrence rates than surgical excision.

Photodynamic therapy offers good cosmetic outcomes for superficial SCC but with limited depth of treatment penetration.

Nonexcisional approaches are best reserved for patients who are poor surgical candidates or have low-risk, superficial disease.