Topical ascorbic acid treatment for squamous cell skin cancer

Concentrated Ascorbic Acid in DMSO for Treatment of Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Skin

Early Phase 1 Interventional Center for Biomedical Research, Inc. · NCT05932511

This study is testing if a new topical vitamin C treatment can effectively help people with certain types of skin cancer compared to a standard cream.

Quick facts

PhaseEarly Phase 1
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment15 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 85 Years
SexAll
SponsorCenter for Biomedical Research, Inc. Industry-sponsored
Locations1 site (Boise, Idaho)
Trial IDNCT05932511 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial evaluates the efficacy of a 30% solution of ascorbic acid in 95% dimethylsulfoxide applied topically twice daily for 8 weeks, compared to a 5% imiquimod cream for treating biopsy-proven squamous cell carcinomas of the skin. The study aims to determine the resolution of the carcinoma through biopsy results after treatment. Participants include otherwise healthy adults with specific types of squamous cell cancer, and the trial is designed to be conducted in accordance with ethical guidelines. The goal is to provide a potentially less invasive and cost-effective treatment option for skin cancer.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults with histologically confirmed primary, previously untreated, nodular or superficial squamous cell carcinoma.

Not a fit: Patients with larger tumors, previous malignancies, diabetes, or those who are immunocompromised may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could offer a non-invasive and cost-effective alternative to traditional surgical methods for squamous cell skin cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown effectiveness of topical ascorbic acid for basal cell carcinoma, but this specific approach for squamous cell carcinoma is novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Presence of biopsy proven squamous cell cancer of the skin -

Exclusion Criteria: Previous history of malignancy, diabetes, immunocompromised

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Where this trial is running

Boise, Idaho

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Squamous Cell CancerSquamous Cell CarcinomaSkin CancerNon-melanoma Skin Cancersquamous cell cancerskin cancernon-melanoma skin cancersquamous cell carcinoma
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.