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Vitiligo-like depigmentation induced by imiquimod treatment of superficial basal cell carcinoma
Kavita Sriprakash1, Amanda Godbolt
1Dermatology Department, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. lavinder01@yahoo.com
Abstract:
A 61-year-old man was treated with imiquimod 5% cream for superficial basal cell carcinoma, five times per week for 13 weeks. This resulted in vitiligo-like depigmentation and poliosis in the area of treatment. This rare side-effect has been noted in previous case reports of imiquimod treatment for both genital warts and superficial basal cell carcinoma. This highlights the importance of such a side-effect being discussed with the patient who is to be treated with imiquimod, particularly in cosmetically sensitive areas.
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