Superficial BCC still there after imiquimod - what are the options?
Imiquimod clears most superficial basal cell carcinomas, but not all. If part of the BCC remains after the treatment and healing period, or it comes back, it is usually treated by surgical removal, or by Mohs surgery where it is on the face, poorly defined or recurrent.
Is it the BCC or healing skin?
Imiquimod causes a marked inflammatory reaction, and redness can persist for some weeks after the course. Whether any BCC remains should be assessed once the inflammation has fully settled - usually a few months after completing the course of treatment.
Options for a remaining or recurrent BCC
- Excision: removal with a margin of normal skin and a line of stitches. The standard treatment for most skin cancers on the body.
- Mohs surgery: the treatment of choice for basal cell carcinomas on the face. It has the highest cure rate of any treatment for basal cell carcinoma and removes the least healthy skin.
- Photodynamic therapy or Efudix: occasionally suitable for a small superficial BCC.
BCC still there?
I can assess whether any BCC remains and recommend the treatment with the best chance of cure. I perform Mohs surgery.
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