Intralesional interferon alpha-2b in the treatment of basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma: revisited.
BACKGROUND
Intralesional interferon (IFN) alpha-2b has been shown to be a safe and effective mode of treatment for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Multiple studies published in the 1980s through the early 1990s have demonstrated the efficacy of intralesional interferon in the treatment of these malignancies. Unfortunately, this modality appears to be underused.


OBJECTIVE
This article serves to remind dermatologists that in addition to cryotherapy, electrodesiccation, and surgical excision, intralesional IFN-alpha is an important part of the armamentarium in the treatment of nonmelanoma skin cancers.


METHODS
In addition to a review of the literature, we present eight cases in seven patients successfully treated with intralesional IFN for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.


CONCLUSIONS
Its nonsurgical approach and excellent cosmetic results make IFNalpha-2b an attractive option for patients and an important alternative when other treatment modalities are impractical or contraindicated.
Kim
Karen H
KH
Department of Dermatology, State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York, USA. karen_hj_kim@hotmail.com
Yavel
Regina M
RM
Gross
Victoria L
VL
Brody
Neil
N
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002280:Basal Cell Carcinoma / Q000188:drug therapy*; D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000188:drug therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D000077190:Interferon alpha-2; D016898:Interferon-alpha / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011994:Recombinant Proteins; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy*
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D000077190:Interferon alpha-2; D016898:Interferon-alpha; D011994:Recombinant Proteins