What to expect from imiquimod BCC treatment

Your clinician identifies the treatment field and gives a schedule for applying imiquimod. The medicine activates an immune response in the skin; redness and other visible changes may therefore become part of the course. Treatment plans vary with the product and diagnosis. A reaction can be uncomfortable without proving that the tumour has cleared, so the final assessment remains essential.

Before starting, tell the clinic about eczema, open wounds, immune-system conditions, pregnancy or breastfeeding, and medicines used on the same area. Apply a thin layer exactly as directed to clean, dry skin. Let it remain for the instructed time, then wash it off as advised. Avoid shaving, scrubbing and fragranced products over the field while it is irritated. Keep a record of applications and contact the clinic before changing the schedule.

Call the clinic if pain, swelling, bleeding, weeping or crusting becomes hard to control, or if you are unsure whether a reaction is within the intended field. Seek urgent care for trouble breathing, swelling of the lips or face, widespread blistering, faintness or fever with rapidly spreading redness.

Clarify the exact application days, wash-off instructions, permitted moisturiser, missed-dose plan and review date. Ask how the clinic will assess the site after treatment and which changes should prompt an earlier examination.