Topical Skin Cancer Treatments
The treatment of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) includes many options depending on the type of pathology, a few of which are: Mohs surgery, electrodessication and curettage, Imiquimod, Efedux, etc. Topical treatments have become increasingly popular due to their non-invasive nature and good aesthetic outcomes. Standard topical treatments for superficial BCCs used in the United States are 5-Fluorouracil (Efudex) and Imiquimod. There is another topical treatment option called Curaderm that is not currently used in the US but is used in Europe and is available over the counter.
Curaderm BEC5 is a topical cream derived from eggplants, containing a 0.005% mixture of glycosides that has been used primarily by the United Kingdom as a treatment for premalignant and malignant cutaneous skin cancers.
However, it’s use in the United States has not gained traction. It is primarily used by patients who self-select and treat on their own, without medical guidance.
Studies show a 66-78% cure rate of basal cell carcinoma after 8 weeks of treatment. Current treatment modalities of basal cell carcinoma in the United States including Mohs surgery, electrodessication and curettage, Imiquidmod, and Efedux yield a much higher cure rate of 87% and greater.
Here is a breakdown of the current clearance rates of available treatments:
Mohs micrographic surgery: 99%
PDT (Photodynamic Therapy): 88%
There are many great treatment options for the treatment of basal cell carcinoma, and there are multiple considerations when deciding the best treatment option for you, your provider will help guide you through picking the best treatment option.
So, what about Curaderm? It works, but not as well as other well-established topical therapies.