Primary cutaneous CD30+ T-cell lymphoma responsive to topical imiquimod (Aldara)

CD30+ anaplastic large cell lymphoma is a primary cutaneous lymphoproliferative disorder with a high rate of spontaneous regression (almost 25%). The suggested therapies are radiation, surgery and methotrexate. We describe two patients with nonregressing primary cutaneous CD30+ T-cell lymphoma that was successfully treated with topical imiquimod 5% cream (Aldara, 3M) three times weekly for 6 weeks. In both cases we obtained complete clinical remission, confirmed by histology. No recurrences were observed during the following 8 months. We consider that topical application of an immune response modifier, such as imiquimod, could be a good alternative to other potentially more dangerous or aggressive treatments.