What is a common topical treatment used for basal cell carcinoma?

5-fluorouracil is indeed a common topical treatment used for basal cell carcinoma. It is a chemotherapy agent that works by interfering with the synthesis of DNA and RNA, ultimately leading to the destruction of rapidly dividing cells, such as cancerous ones. When applied topically, it targets areas of actinic keratosis and superficial basal cell carcinoma, providing an effective treatment by causing the tumor cells to undergo necrosis while allowing surrounding healthy tissue to remain intact.

While options like imiquimod are also utilized in treating basal cell carcinoma by stimulating the immune system to attack the cancer cells, imiquimod is typically seen as another option rather than the most common. Retin-A, primarily used for acne and skin conditions such as photoaging, does not directly target basal cell carcinoma. Cyclophosphamide is a systemic chemotherapy agent and is not typically used topically for skin cancers. Hence, 5-fluorouracil stands out as a well-established choice for managing superficial basal cell carcinoma.