Are Efudex and Dovonex routinely prescribed as a chemotherapy treatment for AK on the nose?

Question

I have had my second Moh’s surgery on my nose and after finding precancerous spots, my dermatologist suggested a chemotherapy cream, Efudex. Reading the side effects, I feel terrified to attempt this type of treatment. I have seen some posts about the success of Efudex along with Dovonex which requires a much shorter treatment time and apparently has fewer side effects. Are the studies of this treatment too new and not yet recommended in general practice? I’m wondering why it was not recommended.

Hooman Khorasani, MD · Answer

Hello and thanks for your question. There are various topical therapies to treat actinic keratosis. They each have the pros and cons. There has been some small randomized clinical trials which showed benefits with a much shorter course by using a combined regimen. Of course, you would need to discuss these with your provider.

F. Victor Rueckl, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

Efudex is just really the older and more known brand. I personally don't feel strongly one way or the other on it compared to other brands. All of the brands are great but do have downtime. Picato Gel is another option. But overall, they are effective and great treatments especially for people who have serious damage and have already had skin cancers requiring Mohs surgery. You have to weigh out what's better - a few weeks of redness and peeling vs. multiple surgeries requiring stitches and cancers. I'd opt to pretreat as much as possible to avoid as much damage as possible. "This answer has been solicited without seeing this patient and cannot be held as true medical advice, but only opinion. Seek in-person treatment with a trained medical professional for appropriate care."

Are Efudex and Dovonex routinely prescribed as a chemotherapy treatment for AK on the nose?

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Are Efudex and Dovonex routinely prescribed as a chemotherapy treatment for AK on the nose?

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Everything you need to know about Mohs Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.