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The use of topical imiquimod was found to effectively promote regression of precancerous cervical lesions, according to a phase II randomized controlled trial.
In a per-protocol population of women with high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL) of the cervix, histologic regression of lesions was observed in 60.5% of patients receiving weekly treatment with imiquimod compared with just 22.5% in the control group (
P=0.001), resulting in a number needed to treat (NNT) of 2.63, reported Bruno O. Fonseca, MD, of Barretos Cancer Hospital in São Paulo, Brazil, and colleagues.
HSIL of the cervix, which are induced by human papillomavirus (HPV), are a precursor to cervical cancer. The standard treatment is surgical excision by either cold knife conization, laser conization, or a loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP).