Archive · 24 Aug 2026
Dissolvable 3D-Printed Patch Could Improve Skin Cancer Treatment
Scientists are developing a small patch for treating skin cancer.
The patch has tiny needles that dissolve in the skin.
These needles carry two medicines called curcumin and 5-fluorouracil.
After the patch is placed on the skin, the needles pass through the outer skin layer.
They slowly dissolve and release the medicines where they are needed.
This could make treatment more targeted.
It might also mean fewer creams or repeated applications are needed.
The patch could offer another choice instead of some injections, which can be uncomfortable or frightening.
The patch contains dissolvable microneedles carrying curcumin and 5-fluorouracil.
Microneedles penetrate the skin’s outer barrier after the patch is applied.
The needles gradually dissolve and release medicines at the targeted site.
Researchers say the approach could reduce repeated topical applications.
The patch may provide an alternative to some injections, which can cause discomfort and anxiety.
- Who
- Scientists studying a dissolvable microneedle patch.
- What
- A 3D-printed patch designed to deliver curcumin and 5-fluorouracil for potential skin cancer treatment.
- Why
- To deliver medicines more precisely and potentially reduce repeated topical applications or some injections.
- Patch type
- Small dissolvable 3D-printed patch
- Delivery method
- Dissolvable microneedles penetrate the outer skin barrier
- Medicines
- Curcumin and 5-fluorouracil
- Drug release
- The microneedles gradually dissolve and release the medicines at the targeted site
- Potential benefit
- More precise drug delivery for skin cancer
- Possible alternative
- May reduce the need for repeated topical applications and offer an alternative to some injections