COX2 Inhibition and Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer

In preclinical and epidemiological studies, cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2) has been shown to play a role in the pathogenesis of nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSCs). Moreover, in animal models, celecoxib (a COX2 inhibitor) has been shown to reduce the formation of ultraviolet-induced premalignant skin papillomas, a murine variant of actinic keratoses. Therefore, investigators conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase II–III trial, funded in part by the drug manufacturer, to assess the efficacy of celecoxib in reducing the incidence of actinic keratoses, BCCs, and cutaneous SCCs in 240 high-risk individuals. Eligible patients had 10 to 40 AKs on sun-exposed sites and a prior histological diagnosis of AK, NMSC, or both. Patients re…