Read article Imiquimod cream for skin cancer
This page tells you about imiquimod cream (Aldara). This is a new type of treatment for the most common form of skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma (BCC). There is information about
Imiquimod cream uses your immune system to attack cancers. This means it uses your body’s natural defences to kill the skin cancer cells. It does this by releasing a number of chemicals called cytokines. One of these cytokines is called interferon. Interferon is a protein that is made naturally as part of the body’s immune response. Interferon is also used as a cancer treatment. It is thought that imiquimod makes cells produce more interferon which destroys the skin cancer cells.
Some small studies in the USA and Australia have shown that this cream may be of great benefit to people with small, early stage BCC. The trials in these two countries have shown that between 70 and 100 out of every 100 people (70 to 100%) who used the cream at least once daily had a very good response to it.
Imiquimod is usually used to treat genital warts. But it has now been approved in the UK for the treatment of superficial BCCs that measure up to 2 cm across. It can be used for BCC on the trunk, neck, arms and legs (including hands and feet) if the doctor feels it is a more appropriate treatment than surgery. But it may not be widely available on the NHS yet. Imiquimod has not been approved for nodular BCC.
Surgery usually cures most people with non melanoma skin cancer. But it can cause scarring. This can change the way you look. Some people find that a scar can affect their self esteem. Imiquimod cream does not cause scarring so has the advantage of a better appearance after treatment. And you can put it on yourself at home. Home application means that you
- Avoid repeated trips to a cancer centre
- Don't have to have an operation
Cancer Research UK funded a 5 year clinical trial to look at the effectiveness of imiquimod cream for both superficial and nodular basal cell carcinoma (BCC) compared to surgery. This trial has now closed and we are waiting for the results.
Some people find that their skin gets red and sore in the area where they use imiquimod. Let your doctor or nurse know if this happens. Some people have a lot of scabbing and crusting, which can be uncomfortable. The skin may also change colour afterwards. This may go back to normal after a few months or may be permanent. The hair may also fall out in the treatment area.
In a few people more serious skin reactions can occur. These can cause a very sore area, or spots on the skin, as well as itching, a high temperature (fever), feeling generally unwell, achy joints, eyesight changes, and burning, painful or itchy eyes and mouth sores. If you have this, stop using the cream and tell your doctor immediately.
Some people find that they have lower numbers of blood cells while using imiquimod. This can make you more likely to get infections, can make you bruise more easily, and can make you feel tired.
Rated 4 out of 5 based on 5 votes
- Share this: Tweet
-
-
- Print this page
-
Email this page
Increase text size
Decrease text size
Print page
Print basket
Save pages here and print in one go
Nurse helpline
Questions about cancer? Call freephone
0808 800 4040
or email us
