Topical Nitrogen Mustard (Mechlorethamine) Treatment
Nitrogen mustard (mechlorethamine) is a chemotherapy drug that is normally given intravenously to treat the entire body. When mixed in an ointment, it is a useful treatment for lymphomas of the skin.
How to Use It
Topical nitrogen mustard is put directly on the sites that need treatment. Before treatment, a patch test should be done. Put a small amount of the ointment on a small spot on the inner forearm to check for an allergic reaction. This should be done nightly for 2 weeks. If there is an allergic reaction, contact the clinic.
If you have no reaction after 2 weeks, start treatment with nitrogen mustard. Skin should be clean and dry before nightly application. Only apply it to affected site. It is showered off in the morning. The ointment should be used only from the neck down. Do not use it on your face.
The treatment may take between 2 and 18 months. Your skin may darken during treatment, but will return to its normal color after you have stopped the medicine.
Side Effects
Skin Irritation
- Redness
- Burning
- Stinging
- Itching
- In severe cases, blisters may develop
Should you have any of these side effects, please call the clinic before you put your next treatment on your skin.
Keep this medicine away from all children and pregnant women.
It is important to protect other people and objects from coming into contact with this ointment. All clothes should be washed separately. Any disposable items should be placed in a separate container.
Phone Numbers
Dermatology Surgery Clinic, 451 Junction Rd, (608) 265-0700.
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 07/20/2011
Copyright © 07/20/2011 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#5993
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