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Basal Cell Carcinoma — SCE Dermatology MCQ

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HardSkin CancerBasal Cell CarcinomaSCE Dermatology

A 13-mm primary superficial BCC on the trunk has clear clinical margins and no high-risk features. Surgery is declined. If imiquimod 5% is selected, which regimen is licensed?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: D — Apply five nights weekly for six weeks, then assess clearance

Explanation lettering: D = shown as A · A = shown as B · E = shown as C · C = shown as D · B = shown as E

C is correct. For superficial BCC, the Aldara SmPC uses imiquimod 5% five times per week for six weeks, applied before sleep and left for about eight hours. The three-times-weekly four-week course with a treatment-free interval is for actinic keratosis; indication-specific schedules must not be interchanged. Nonsurgical therapy is reserved for a suitable low-risk superficial tumour after discussing lower certainty of clearance and the need for follow-up. High-risk site, aggressive subtype, recurrence or ill-defined margins would favour surgical management.

Reference: Aldara 5% cream Summary of Product Characteristics: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/823/smpc