Successful Treatment of Extramammary Paget’s Disease with Imiquimod

February 2003 | Volume 2 | Issue 1 | Case Reports | 73 | Copyright © February 2003


Zheng Qian, MD; Nathalie C. Zitoun, MD; Sherry Shieh, MD Thomas Helm, MD and Allan R. Oseroff, MD

Abstract
Extramammary Paget’s Disease (EMPD) is an uncommon neoplasm found in the genital, anorectal, or axillary area. Surgical excision is considered the standard treatment, although possible loss of tissue function and disease recurrence are seen. Other treatment modalities such as radiotherapy, topical chemotherapy, and photodynamic therapy are associated with varying degrees of effectiveness, but the search for an effective, safe treatment with minimal side effects proves to be challenging. We report a case where complete clinical and histological resolution of non-invasive EMPD of the penis was achieved with minimal adverse effects after six weeks of imiquimod (Aldara) application. As an immune system modifier that stimulates cytokine and interferon production, imiquimod may be a useful alternative or adjuvant in the treatment of EMPD.