Efudex

Regardless of the location where Efudex is put on the body, is it suppose to target only bad cells, premalignant or malignant, and leave other healthy skin alone?  (No reaction?)

I would appreciate an answer from anyone who can help.  I am having a terrible reaction.

Thanks, Karrie

On 4/9/2008 Karrie wrote:

Regardless of the location where Efudex is put on the body, is it suppose to target only bad cells, premalignant or malignant, and leave other healthy skin alone?  (No reaction?)

I would appreciate an answer from anyone who can help.  I am having a terrible reaction.

Thanks, Karrie

Hi Karrie:

I di the whole Efudex procedure in 2007, it was awful but the result was wonderful. In answer to your question normal skin will not react to the cream. I did my whole face, neck and chest and all responded very well but there were patches of skin that remained clear and free. Take heart all will be well soon. How often are you applying the cream I used it 2x day for 21 days and hibernated for almost 2 months it was that bad.

Thanks for helping me Samra.  I have one more question.   Did you ever notice a tingling to spots on your skin that were reacting to the Efudex?  

Thanks again.                        

Now my lower lips looks like it is off white and looks like infection, across the whole lower lip.    The top lip is somewhat red and slightly peeling which is normal I am sure.  I called the doctor, and he said to discontinue the Efudex and use Aquaphor and Polysporin.  The bottom lip really hurts.  I don't care about that, but is infection a normal reaction?

Help.  Thank you.

 Karrie

I don't think an infection is what many people have for a reaction, but I have heard of it during treatment.   I would do what your Dr says.

Check out this thread below, it is like a big book of many different peoples experiences during treatment and post-treatment.  It is in this same forum, and has been going for a couple years. There are just under 600 posts so far; a lot of caring people all going through the same pain. It helped me get through my rough treatment.

http://www.cancercompass.com/message-board/message/all,4537,

I think this link might work better

 http://www.cancercompass.com/message-board/message/all,4537,

Hi Kerrie,

 I have been using Efudex all over my face for 16 days now and the reaction is awful. My whole face is very red but it looks like the actinic keratosis spots are the worst. Those spots (there are lots of them) are now scabbing and crusting over. It is painful now but my doc prescribed a cortisone cream called Desonide and I think it helps.  You can apply this two hours after you apply the Efudex. I'm also using Eucerin Aquaphor. Neither of these products burn my skin when I use them. Also, I've been using Ibuprofen for the pain.

Hang in there and keep your eye on the prize. This too shall pass.

 Good luck,

Cynthia