Electrochemotherapy vs radiotherapy in the treatment of primary cutaneous malignancies or cutaneous metastases from primary solid organ malignancies: a protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Electrochemotherapy has emerged as a valuable tool in the treatment of cutaneous malignancies that are unamenable to surgical resection. Despite growing recognition and recommendation national guidelines, date, no Level 1 evidence exists comparing its use radiotherapy management malignancies. A systematic review meta-analysis will be undertaken line with Cochrane Handbook Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews Meta-Analyses statement checklist. comprehensive search strategy applied MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, CENTRAL ClinicalTrials.gov from time period inception December 2021. Supplementary searches grey literature also undertaken. Studies humans which compare electrochemotherapy report tumour response at least 4-week follow-up eligible. included regardless publication language or country origin. Screening studies data extraction independently by two authors. Our primary outcome volume according Response Evaluation Criteria Solid Tumors. We extract any secondary outcomes reported, such patient-reported measures, pain, toxicity/adverse events progression-free survival. Included assessed risk bias using recognized tools. Evidence quality appraised Grading Recommendations, Assessment, Development approach. If acceptable clinical homogeneity suitable is extracted, performed. adequate present, various subgroup analyses Publication funnel plot Egger’s test. PROSPERO CRD42021285415