Superficial and nodular basal cell carcinomas treated with an immune response modifier: a report of seven patients

Abstract

Skin cancer is the most common malignancy in humans and accounts for one-third of newly diagnosed cancers. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is one of the most prevalent and persistent types, and appears in two main histological forms, superficial and nodular. Typical treatments include surgery; however, this may leave scarring, which is undesirable, especially in facial lesions. We report the results of seven individual patients with one or more BCCs (both nodular and superficial) treated with imiquimod 5% cream. Eleven of 13 lesions cleared following daily topical treatment for 10-18 weeks. Any local skin reactions resolved at the end of treatment.