Intralesional 5-fluorouracil (FU) as a treatment for nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC): A review

J Am Acad Dermatol. 2016 Mar;74(3):552-7. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2015.09.040. Epub 2015 Nov 11.

Abstract

The treatment paradigm for nonmelanoma skin cancer remains surgical. This fact combined with its remarkably high incidence positions it as the fifth most costly cancer to treat in the Medicare population. To address this, consideration of alternative medical therapeutics is warranted. Intralesional 5-fluorouracil is a potentially affordable option that may demand further investigation. This literature review examines current data on its efficacy and adverse effects.

Keywords: 5-fluorouracil; basal cell carcinoma; intralesional; management; medical therapy; nonmelanoma skin cancer; squamous cell carcinoma.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antimetabolites, Antineoplastic / therapeutic use*
  • Fluorouracil / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Skin Neoplasms / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Antimetabolites, Antineoplastic
  • Fluorouracil