Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is one of the most common skin cancers, with an increasing incidence worldwide. Chronic sun exposure is a major risk factor and lesions are usually seen on sun-exposed areas such as the face, neck, scalp, and hands. Imiquimod cream, an immune response modifier, has shown promising results in the management of SCC.

A 70-year-old, Filipino male presented with 3-year history of a slow growing erythematous plaque on the abdomen. Physical examinaPon done showed a solitary, well- defined, erythematous plaque measuring 5cm on the leR lower quadrant of the abdomen. Histopathologic examination revealed SCC. In an initial attempt to decrease the size of the tumor, Imiquimod 5% cream 2x a week was initiated. However with continuous use for 24 weeks the patient achieved complete clinical resolution which was confirmed with biopsy.

This case report showcases imiquimod cream as a valuable therapeutic option for giant (5cm)cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, offering a non-surgical alternative with promising outcomes. This treatment approach has the potential to expand the management options for cSCC and benefit patients who may not be suitable candidates for conventional surgical excision.

Human ; Male ; Aged: 65-79 Yrs Old ; Imiquimod

Nevoid hyperkeratosis of the nipple and areola (NHNA) is a rare, asymptomatic skin condition characterized by verrucous, hyperpigmented papules, and plaques. It predominantly affects the nipple and areola, often bilaterally. Less than 50 cases have been reported worldwide, with only 39% showing unilateral breast involvement. In the Philippines, a single medical literature from 2014 describes two cases of adolescent‑onset NHNA. We report a rare case of a 40‑year‑old, Filipino woman with a 1‑year history of a mildly pruritic, solitary, well‑demarcated, irregularly shaped, black papule that progressed into a plaque on her right areola. There was suspicion of cutaneous malignancy due to some of the clinical features of the lesion and lack of response to initial treatment. With a correlation between clinical presentation and histopathologic findings, the features were consistent with NHNA. This is a benign skin condition that can mimic and must be differentiated from malignant tumors. Various treatment modalities were described in different medical literatures, some resulting in recurrence or treatment failure, but there is no standard management for this condition. Skin biopsy is crucial to rule out malignancy in cases presenting with persistent and progressively solitary pigmented lesions that do not respond to topical medications. The usual treatment options based on literature include various topicals, lasers, and surgical procedures. In our case, clobetasol propionate ointment was used. While most published cases show varied responses to topical corticosteroids, the result in our case was significant.
Nipples ; Clobetasol ; Nipples

BACKGROUND

Psoriasis is an increasingly prevalent chronic disease commonly treated with topical corticosteroids (TCS), although these agents are often misused. There is a need to explore the factors influencing nonadherence to TCS among patients with psoriasis in the Philippines. This study aimed to determine the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding TCS among Filipino patients with psoriasis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was conducted on 76 Filipino patients with psoriasis at a tertiary hospital using a constructed validated questionnaire.

RESULTS

Patient scores clustered at the upper end of the distribution, indicating a generally good level of KAP regarding TCS. Increasing age was associated with a lower level of knowledge, while female respondents had a higher level of knowledge. Higher knowledge levels were associated with better patient attitude, and better patient attitude was associated with better practice.

CONCLUSION

Predictors of correct KAP regarding TCS are less likely influenced by sociodemographic and clinical factors; rather, these three domains significantly correlate with each other. Physicians can utilize these interrelationships by educating patients regarding their topical treatment to yield more positive attitudes regarding its efficacy and minimize their fear of side effects, which can motivate them to adhere to prescribed therapy.

Human ; Attitude ; Knowledge ; Psoriasis