The use of imiquimod 5% cream for the treatment of basal cell carcinoma as observed in Gorlin's syndrome

Abstract

Gorlin's syndrome (naevoid basal cell carcinoma) is an autosomal dominant tumour-predisposition syndrome. It typically consists of multiple basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) of the skin, odontogenic keratocysts of the jaw, various skeletal abnormalities and lamellar falx calcifications. Four patients with multiple facial and trunk BCCs (superficial and nodular) consistent with Gorlin's syndrome are reported. Imiquimod 5% cream was topically applied to the lesions 3-5 times a week for 8-14 weeks. Two of the patients suffered mild to severe erythema and developed superficial erosions but did not discontinue treatment. Imiquimod 5% cream successfully treated 13 out of 17 BCCs in these patients with Gorlin's syndrome, with no patient suffering a relapse at the follow-up visit.