Recently on 24 August 2020, Australian Health Authority- Therapeutic Good Administration (aka TGA) has issued safety advisory related to increased risk of non-melanoma skin cancer for medicines containing hydrochlorothiazide. The two most common types of non-melanoma skin cancer are Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC).
Hydrochlorothiazide is known to cause photosensitivity, and it is thought that this is the reason for an increased risk of developing non-melanoma skin cancer.
The findings of studies using population-level data from Denmark have been supported in a recently published study of data from Australian patients undertaken by the University of New South Wales (UNSW).
Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers-
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) -
- a pearly lump
- a scaly, dry area that is shiny and pale or bright pink in colour
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
- a thickened red, scaly spot
- a rapidly growing lump
- an area that looks like a sore but has not healed
- an area that may be tender to touch
Preventability -
Educate patients on the signs and symptoms of non-melanoma skin cancer and advise them to use effective UV protection and to get regular skin checks.
Source: TGA Safety Information Alerts- Hydrochlorothiazide