Real-world analysis of cost, treatment patterns, and outcomes of patients with metastatic cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma in the US

Objectives To describe real-world characteristics and treatment patterns of patients with metastatic cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (mCSCC).Methods This retrospective observational study used MarketScan Commercial and Medicare Supplemental claims databases (1/1/2013–7/31/2019). Adult patients with mCSCC who initiated non-immunotherapy systemic treatment (i.e. index event) between 1 January 2014 and 31 December 2018 were assessed for treatment patterns, all-cause and CSCC-related healthcare resource utilization, costs, and mortality .Results Overall, 207 patients were included in the study(mean age 64.8 years, 76.3% male), 59.4% had prior radiotherapy, and 58.9% had prior CSCC-related surgery. During follow-up, 75.8%, 51.7%, and 35.7% of patients received chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and targeted therapy as first-line treatment, respectively. Cisplatin (32.9%) and carboplatin (22.7%) were the most common chemotherapy agents, and cetuximab (32.4%) was the most common targeted therapy during the first-line.Probability of death (95% CI) at month 6, year 1, and year 2 was 24% (16–32%), 50% (40 − 59%), and 67% (56 − 75%), respectively. Average CSCC-related healthcare costs were $5,354 per person per month (PPPM), with outpatient costs being the major cost driver at 96.4% ($5,160 PPPM).Conclusion During 2014–2018, patients with mCSCC were commonly treated with cisplatin and cetuximab; prognosis was generally poor. These results indicate opportunity for new treatments to improve survival outcomes.