Topical chemotherapy

Topical chemotherapy refers to the use of chemotherapy in the form of a lotion, cream, or other topical solution to treat certain skin cancers and conditions. Unlike systemic chemotherapy, which affects the entire body, topical chemotherapy targets and treats only the specific area where it is applied, minimizing systemic side effects.

Uses

Topical chemotherapy is primarily used to treat:

• Actinic keratosis (AK): Precancerous skin growths that arise due to sun exposure.
• Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): The most common type of skin cancer.
• Bowen's disease: An early form of skin cancer that can evolve into squamous cell carcinoma.

It might also be considered for other skin conditions or malignancies that respond to chemotherapy agents.

Mechanism

The active agents in topical chemotherapy creams and lotions work by interfering with the cell division process. As cancer cells tend to divide more rapidly than healthy cells, they are more susceptible to these agents, which ultimately lead to the death of the cancer cells.

Common Agents

• 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU): One of the most commonly used agents, it interferes with DNA synthesis.
• Imiquimod: This stimulates the immune system to destroy cancer cells.
• Diclofenac: An anti-inflammatory drug sometimes used for actinic keratosis.

Procedure

The application procedure typically involves:

• Cleaning the affected area.
• Applying the cream or lotion as directed by the physician, often once or twice daily.
• Letting the medicine stay on for a specific duration, which may range from hours to the whole day.
• Washing off the medication after the prescribed time.

Treatment duration can vary from days to several weeks, depending on the agent and the condition being treated.

Side Effects

Topical chemotherapy can cause localized side effects such as:

• Redness
• Irritation
• Burning sensation
• Swelling
• Crusting or scaling of the skin

It's crucial to report any severe or unexpected side effects to a healthcare professional.

Advantages

• Minimizes systemic side effects.
• Targets only the affected area.
• Suitable for treating surface skin conditions.
• Less invasive compared to surgical interventions.

Precautions

• Avoid sun exposure during treatment.
• Don't cover the treated area with tight bandages unless directed by a physician.
• Inform the physician of any other medicines or creams you might be using on the affected area.

See Also

• Chemotherapy
• Skin cancer
• Actinic keratosis
• Basal cell carcinoma
• Squamous cell carcinoma

Topical chemotherapy Resources
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