Vitiligo-like depigmentation induced by imiquimod treatment of superficial basal cell carcinoma

Australas J Dermatol. 2009 Aug;50(3):211-3. doi: 10.1111/j.1440-0960.2009.00541.x.

Abstract

A 61-year-old man was treated with imiquimod 5% cream for superficial basal cell carcinoma, five times per week for 13 weeks. This resulted in vitiligo-like depigmentation and poliosis in the area of treatment. This rare side-effect has been noted in previous case reports of imiquimod treatment for both genital warts and superficial basal cell carcinoma. This highlights the importance of such a side-effect being discussed with the patient who is to be treated with imiquimod, particularly in cosmetically sensitive areas.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Topical
  • Aminoquinolines / adverse effects*
  • Aminoquinolines / therapeutic use
  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Biopsy, Needle
  • Carcinoma, Basal Cell / drug therapy*
  • Carcinoma, Basal Cell / pathology
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Hypopigmentation / chemically induced
  • Hypopigmentation / pathology
  • Imiquimod
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasm Staging
  • Risk Assessment
  • Skin Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Skin Neoplasms / pathology
  • Vitiligo / chemically induced*
  • Vitiligo / pathology

Substances

  • Aminoquinolines
  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Imiquimod