Treatment of periocular lentigo maligna with topical 5% Imiquimod: a review

Lentigo Maligna is a benign subtype of melanoma in situ and can progress to lentigo maligna melanoma, which is invasive. Complete surgical excision is the gold standard of treatment but requires large margins. If affecting the peri-ocular region, surgical excision leads to extensive defects, complex reconstructions, and functional impairment of the protection of the ocular surface. Here we review the reported literature about the use of Imiquimod 5% topical cream for lentigo maligna of the eyelid, the treatment outcomes, side effects and tolerance. In addition, the side effects of imiquimod treatment of non-LM lesions are described to help better inform the decision-making process. Treatment for peri-ocular Lentigo maligna showed a 56–86% complete treatment response and a 90% tolerability rate. However, reported treatment protocols vary and histopathological confirmation of clearance was only obtained in 56%. Further studies are required to determine the optimal treatment protocol to maximise clearance rates. Overall, Imiquimod was well tolerated in the peri-ocular area.