Efudix v Laser
"I have been given a script for Efudix cream to use on my nose and lip area. Since seeing the Dr which is a 5hr round trip for me, I have been thinking about laser resurfacing. Has anyone tried this? Studies published on PubMed say the long term results are better. I did email my Dr but I’m worried her opinion is biased since she would have to send me elsewhere for laser. I have had 4 BCC’s removed. Does anyone here have experience with the creams v laser? Thank you. "
...I understand your concerns, and that distance has to be so stressful for you. I can't tell you about laser resurfacing, but I am hoping some other members can chime in. I am tagging in hopes he can give you more insight into laser resurfacing as opposed to Efudex.
As far as Efudex goes, I have used it since 2014. It's an intense treatment and produces some wonderful results. My reactions have typically been less intense with each treatment. The treatment time is generally anywhere from 3 to 6 weeks, and I am not asked to return for a recheck until I have healed six weeks following the last application.
I am including a few articles you might find useful as you consider treatment with both methods.
https://skincancer.net/life-with-skin-cancer/efudex-first-time
https://skincancer.net/life-with-skin-cancer/topical-chemotherapy-side-effects
https://skincancer.net/treatment/laser-surgery
Anna's journey is a little different than yours, but she does a wonderful job of breaking down the process of dermabrasion.
https://skincancer.net/life-with-skin-cancer/dermabrasion
I am wishing you all the best as you make your decision. Hopefully, your doctor will give you the guidance you are seeking on laser resurfacing.
Hugs,
April, SkinCancer.net, Moderatorthank you for replying. All the stories were interesting. I did not realize Efudex was a chemotherapy drug!! The Dr explained it to me as a cream just like moisturizer that i will put on twice a day, I have to email her photos and she will tell me when to stop. I think maybe a second opinion is necessary. Its just so difficult when you live in the country. This group is amazing though!
...I totally get it. I also live in the country and have to drive a good distance to see any specialist.
I am glad you have worked out a system of emailing your progress in photos--sounds like a great plan and keeps you from having to be on the road!
Efudex is so much more than a moisturizer. I am really glad you found this community--you will find lots of support here. I am also including a few articles that have tips for using the cream and some advice for the healing phase.
https://skincancer.net/life-with-skin-cancer/tips-for-efudex-users
https://skincancer.net/life-with-skin-cancer/efudex-erosion-stage
https://skincancer.net/life-with-skin-cancer/efudex-side-effects-tips
Sending you hugs! Don't hesitate to reach out if you need us!
April, SkinCancer.net, Moderator
Hi, I'm on my third round of efudex, roughly a year apart. I have several recurring BCCs around my ear and under the hair on my scalp. I've been having treatment there for nearly 10 years (I'm now 66) ...surgery, aldara, light therapy but nothing has been able to totally remove it or halt the spread. I was scheduled for Mohs surgery that would have been a two day job and would have meant a huge bald patch on one side of my head. Efudex was a last chance treatment but one that at least seems to control it. I was told it was less effective under hair, and that seems to be true althoughit does definitely have an effect.. I think I may need to see this as a lifetime thing. I had a huge reaction, in a good way, to the first round of efudex but less obviously so the last time. This year I've decided to use it for much longer than the 4 weeks prescribed. I've gone 6 weeks so far and I'm aiming for 12.
...I admire your dedication to finding a method that really works for you. I know it has to have been a hard road.
I am glad you got less of a reaction the second time you treated. From what my doctor tells me, that usually means I have much less damage and previous rounds of Efudex did a thorough job. That's certainly something to celebrate!
How are you feeling at the halfway mark? Any spots eroding yet?
It sounds like you are becoming a pro at using Efudex and may not need many tips at this point, but I am including a couple of articles you may find useful as you enter the homestretch.
https://skincancer.net/life-with-skin-cancer/efudex-erosion-stage
https://skincancer.net/life-with-skin-cancer/efudex-side-effects-tips
Since you are treating the scalp and may need some very specific tips, I would like to suggest a Facebook support group dedicated to Efudex users. I know that several members have experience treating their scalps and have lots of great tips to share. This group has been a real source of comfort on some very hard days.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/191070307590515
Wishing you all the best! Please keep us posted on your progress. I am crossing my fingers for some awesome results and smooth healing for you!
April, SkinCancer.net, Moderator
Thanks, I'll certainly have a look at the articles and Facebook suggestions
