Can cancer be treated with creams or solutions?

Can cancer be treated with creams or solutions?

Harry Saperstein, MD, FAAD (Dermatologist, Clinical Assoc. Professor, Medicine, Private Practice and UCLA) gives expert video advice on: How are early-stage melanoma skin cancers treated?; What types of radiation therapy are used to treat skin cancer?; Does laser therapy have a role in treating skin cancer? and more...

There are some basal cell carcinomas, as well as superficial squamous cell carcinomas, that we now have access to removing by the use of an immunostimulant cream known as Imiquimod (brand name Aldara). Aldara brings the immune system over to the tumour and in so doing the immune system has the capability of destroying the abnormal cells. Aldara or Imiquimod is extraordinarily effective in multiple superficial basal cell carcinomas. It is not, however, a "free lunch" because it causes a fair amount of irritation. It can cause crusting and inflammation. You have to use it for 6 weeks to 12 weeks. It is non-surgical so it is appealing to patients, and there are certain clinical situations where it is extremely valuable but it is not primary treatment for skin cancers; either basal cells or squamous cell carcinomas.