Efudex Application After Crust Develops
Hello, and thank you for your supportive site. I have recently had a Squamous cancer cut out from my scalp and in my follow up, after I raised a query about a couple of other small similar growths, I was given efudix cream to use on my scalp twice a day for 3 weeks. I have nearly completed 2 weeks and, after initial weeping from the scalp, it is crusting up all over the scalp as expected. Whilst I have read a lot on your site as well as the accompanying leaflets with the cream, I have 2 questions. First, am I okay to continue putting the cream onto the scalp & directly onto the crusty & flaking areas?
The second query is over the last 2-3 days, I developed swelling round the eyes and slightly around the top of the nose & forehead. The cream is not being used on these areas. The eyes looked liked I had been punched but without the bruising! It is not itchy, not red nor inflamed and is not causing pain in or around the area; the swelling is now mainly around one eye. Is this a possible, albeit not often reported, side affect of the cream/treatment.
I am male & 64 years old.
TIA of your advice.
...from my experience, it sounds as if you have reached the erosion stage. The crusting and weeping is the sign my dermatologist tells me to watch for. At that point, I know I am done and ready to enter the healing phase. It's quite possible that you have reached the erosion phase before the prescribed 3 weeks are over. That does happen for some users. It might be worth your time to check in with your doctor and see if he/she suggests stopping or continuing a little longer. There are many side effects reported by Efudex users. The swelling you describe could be a side effect or an allergic reaction. I had a similar reaction a couple of years ago when i treated my face. Though I didn't apply near my eyes, my eyes did swell especially first thing in the morning. Your doctor might want to know about this development. Is a telehealth visit possible for you? Or could you send your doctor some pictures of the swelling?
I am including a few articles you might find helpful as you sort things out.
This article addresses the erosion phase:
https://skincancer.net/life-with-skin-cancer/efudex-erosion-stage/This one is on the possible side effects:
https://skincancer.net/life-with-skin-cancer/efudex-side-effects/Here is one on the healing phase. It can be quite a challenge. Hang in there. It does get better!
https://skincancer.net/life-with-skin-cancer/efudex-side-effects-tips/I am wishing you all the best! Please keep us updated on your progress!
April, SkinCancer.net, Moderator
Thank you for the quick response; it was useful in reaffirming what I thought. Your time given on this Forum is appreciated. Many thanks
