Treatment of basal cell carcinoma of the eyelids with 5% topical imiquimod: a 3-year follow-up study

Background The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy and safety of 5% topical imiquimod, and the long-term results following its use, in the treatment of nodular basal cell carcinoma (BCC) of the eyelid. Methods Imiquimod cream (5%) was applied topically to five individuals affected by nodular BCC of the eyelid. The patients were followed up during the 6 weeks of treatment and for another 3 years after treatment. Local side effects and evidence of tumour regression or recurrence were noted. Results Complete clinical clearance of the tumour was obtained in four patients, with no response in the fifth patient. Therapy was typically accompanied by significant discomfort due to local side effects, which disappeared following completion of the treatment. None of these patients showed any local recurrence after 3 years. Conclusions Topical imiquimod applied in the form of a 5% cream proved to be a safe, efficacious and sustainable treatment option for nodular BCC of the eyelid in our selected cases.