NCT05381597 · Boston University
5-Fluorouracil and Calcipotriene for Treatment of Low Grade Skin Cancer
What this study is about
The investigators will compare the application of two different creams for the treatment of low-risk skin cancers-superficial basal cell carcinoma (sBCC) and squamous cell carcinoma in situ (SCCis).
View original scientific description
The investigators will compare the application of two different creams for the treatment of low-risk skin cancers-superficial basal cell carcinoma (sBCC) and squamous cell carcinoma in situ (SCCis). 5-Fluorouracil cream is currently FDA approved for the treatment of superficial basal cell carcinoma and is routinely used by dermatologists across the country and at Boston Medical Center (BMC) for SCCis. The normal treatment regimen is 4 weeks of the 5-fluorouracil cream for both skin cancers. The application of a compounded cream consisting of 1:1 ratio 5-fluorouracil with calcipotriene will be tested. This combination cream has been shown to clear pre-skin cancers called actinic keratoses and prevent future skin cancers from developing. This combination cream for 7-14 days to see if this shorter treatment course provides clearance of the 2 types of skin cancer. This combination cream is successfully used in this manner to treat other subtypes of related skin cancers. This will be a pilot study with The primary endpoint for this pilot randomized single blinded clinical trial will be the response to treatment (yes versus no). The lesions will be assessed clinically for clearance of cancer, as would normally be done and is consistent with how comparable studies have assessed clearance. Participants will be followed closely afterwards for three years with visits at 6 months, which does not vary from standard practice. If the lesions are not clear of cancer or equivocal clinically, the lesions will be re-biopsied and normal standard of care procedure will take place.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- English-speaking
- Having a previously untreated, biopsy-proven Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma (sBCC) or Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Situ (SCCis) of the skin \<2 cm on the scalp, trunk, neck, or extremities, excluding hands, feet, and genitalia
- Having a previously untreated, biopsy-proven sBCC or SCCis on the face, hands, feet, and genitalia who decline surgery or are otherwise not surgical candidates
- Willing to undergo all protocol requirements and attend study-specific follow up clinic visits in addition to routine follow up visits
- Participants may have multiple lesions enrolled in the study so long as the individual lesions are greater than 2 cm from each other
- If a woman is of childbearing potential, the participant must be willing to take a pregnancy test before starting treatment and be on some form of birth control while receiving treatment. Birth control can include abstinence, oral contraceptive pill, intrauterine device, implanted birth control device, birth control patch, or the vaginal ring. The patient does not need to be on any form of birth control after they end therapy.
Exclusion criteria
- Current or prior field treatment within 2 cm of the target BCC or SCCis
- Periorbital lesions
- Lesions that have been previously treated
- Known allergy to any of the study medication ingredients
- History of solid organ transplant or current immunosuppression
- Genetic disorders associated with high skin cancer risk
- Arsenic exposure
- Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma
- Current or prior radiation therapy at the site of the sBCC or SCCis
- Women who are pregnant or currently breastfeeding
- Prior psoralen plus Ultraviolet light (UVA) treatment at the site
- Very high mortality risk at the start of the study
- Dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) enzyme deficiency
- Demonstrated hypercalcemia or evidence of vitamin D toxicity
- Lesions that extend into the oral, nasal or genital mucosa
Where
- Boston, Massachusetts
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Nov 28, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations