Fluorouracil (Efudex)
What is Fluorouracil?
Fluorouracil is a topical chemotherapy cream mainly prescribed for the treatment of actinic keratosis, which are precancerous spots, and early-stage skin cancers such as squamous cell carcinoma. Its utility is particularly highlighted when multiple precancerous lesions are distributed over an area that is challenging to manage with cryotherapy. Given that precancerous lesions can unpredictably manifest in new locations, fluorouracil serves as a field therapy to manage a broader skin surface instead of isolated spots.
How does Fluorouracil work?
Chemotherapeutic Action: The cream exerts its effects by inhibiting the growth of abnormal cells, thereby promoting the death of precancerous and cancerous skin cells.
What are possible side effects of Fluorouracil?
Skin Inflammation: The treatment leads to pronounced skin inflammation resembling a sunburn or chemical peel. You may experience skin that turns bright red, along with crusting or soreness in certain areas.
Relief Measures: Applying Vaseline or Aquaphor can offer relief from skin irritation.
Discomfort Level: While the irritation may visually appear severe, most patients report experiencing only mild to moderate discomfort.
Systemic Effects: Applying the cream to a too extensive skin area may lead to systemic symptoms like flu-like manifestations, including fatigue and chills. Always adhere to the specified application zones as directed by your healthcare provider.
How is Fluorouracil used?
Variable Regimens: Treatment durations can vary widely, ranging from 5 days to 6 weeks, contingent on the condition being managed.
Monitoring: Due to the significant skin inflammation, if you experience discomfort that seems out of proportion to the expected side effects, immediate consultation with your healthcare provider is advisable to rule out infection or other complications.
Post-Treatment: The skin may require 1-2 weeks after treatment cessation to regain its normal texture and appearance.
Sun Avoidance: It's important to minimize sun exposure during the course of the treatment for optimal outcomes.
Precautions:
Make sure to consult your healthcare provider for precise treatment regimens and potential side effect management.
Use the cream strictly as directed, both in terms of area of application and duration of treatment, to avoid unnecessary side effects.
Monitoring of the skin is critical during and post-treatment, and any unusual symptoms should prompt immediate medical consultation.
For more detailed usage instructions, please refer to the chemo cream instruction sheet provided.