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Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma

Superficial basal cell carcinoma is a subtype of basal cell carcinoma, the form of skin cancer diagnosed most often. It shows up as a slightly scaly, irregular patch with a thin translucent border.

Aldara Cream

Imiquimod

5% 250mg

Imiquimod cream for actinic keratosis and genital warts. It works by triggering the body's own immune response against the affected cells.

From$12.00/ sachetView

Efudex

Fluorouracil

5%

Fluorouracil cream for actinic keratosis and some skin cancers. It destroys precancerous and cancerous cells by blocking their rapid division.

From$36.40/ tubeView

Key points

  • Superficial BCC is one of several distinct clinical types of basal cell carcinoma, which itself has over 20 histological growth patterns.
  • It is the subtype seen most frequently in younger adults and tends to appear on the upper trunk and shoulders.
  • Treatment depends on type, size, location, and patient factors; most BCCs are treated surgically.

Medicines listed for Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma

The two products listed for this skin cancer subtype are topical preparations. Imiquimod, found in Aldara Cream, is an immune-response modifier that prompts the body’s own defences to target abnormal cells. Fluorouracil, found in Efudex, is an antimetabolite that interferes with the growth of rapidly dividing cells. Both are applied to the skin surface where the superficial lesion sits.

Further reading