The use of imiquimod to treat squamous cell carcinoma in a cat
Imiquimod is a new immunomodulating drug that is approved for human use in treating genital worts caused by Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and superficial basal cell carcinoma. Although no published data exists on its efficacy in treating feline squamous cell carcinoma in situ and invasive cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, it has been used successfully to treat these diseases anecdotally. Gizmo, a 15 1/2-year-old female spayed white and grey domestic shorthair cat, was diagnosed with actinic ketatosis and squamous cell carcinoma on the distal pinnae of both ears and nose as well as presumptive solar dermatitis on the lower eyelid margins. She was treated with Aldara (5% imiquimod cream) for 12 wee ks and displayed a near complete resolution of her pinnal lesions.