14 DAY TRIAL // In a new scientific study conducted on a type of topical skin cream readily available in stores right now, researchers at the Saint Louis University have discovered that Imiquimod is very capable of actively combating the spread of skin cancer, and regular applications may also keep it in check. The find may be of major significance for the field of oncology, because it may help surgeons devise alternative approaches to skin cancers, ones that do not involve cutting large pieces of skin off patients. Investigations have revealed that the cream has proven unexpected benefits for the skin, some of which have not even been suspected at first.
“As we're seeing melanoma in younger and younger people, in their 30s and 40s, there is a longer window for the cancer to return and a greater desire to avoid disfiguring surgery. This subtype of melanoma is becoming more and more common, and can be one of the more challenging melanomas to manage,” Saint Louis University School of Medicine Chairman in the department of dermatology Scott Fosko, MD, who has also been the lead investigator for the new study, said. Fosko is also the SLU Cancer Center melanoma and cutaneous oncology section director. Details of the recent finds have been published in a recent edition of the scientific journal Dermatologic Surgery.
“While more study is needed to understand how the drug works and which patients are likely to benefit from it, we are optimistic that the drug may prove to be a good option for some patients. This may be an effective first line treatment,” the expert also added, noting that the progression from lentigo maligna (LM) to lentigo maligna melanoma (LMM) took place over 15 years, during which time a host of treatments could be applied to stop the evolution of the disease. However, the expert pinpointed, no medical procedure could beat good protection against the medical condition, which could, after implementation, lead to tumors and to the infection of other organs as well.
In a bid to help people realize if they are at risk of developing melanoma, the most lethal form of skin cancer, SLU researchers have released a list of things to look after, especially in regards to moles. You should always check for:
1. Asymmetry – one half is unlike the other half;
2. Border – irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined border;
3. Color – varied from one area to another; shades of tan and brown, black; sometimes white, red, or blue;
4. Diameter – while melanomas are usually greater than 6 mm (the size of a pencil eraser), when diagnosed, they can be smaller;
5. Evolving – a mole or skin lesion that looks different from the rest or is changing in size, shape, or color.