DERMATOLOGY ASSOCIATES, LLC 50 Sewall Street, Portland, ME 04102 (207) 775-3526 57 Barra Road, Biddeford, ME 04005 (207) 282-3010

Home , Cream (pharmacy), Petroleum jelly

TREATMENT OF ACTINIC KERATOSIS/SUPERFICIAL BCC WITH ALDARA CREAM

1. Actinic keratoses (AK’s) are pre-cancerous rough scaly spots caused by chronic sun exposure. Superficial basal cell carcinoma (sBCC) is an early skin cancer, also usually caused by chronic sun exposure. A common treatment used for both is a topical medication called imiquimod (Aldara/Zyclara).

2. The cream is applied directly to the affected area with a fingertip once a day at bedtime. It is supplied in small tinfoil packets which may be used for several applications depending on the size of the treated area.

3. For the first 10 days, you will probably not notice much change in your skin. After this time the skin will redden and you may feel a burning sensation. Also, your skin may ooze and become dry and flaky or scabby. These are normal reactions to the treatment and indicate that the medicine isworking. These reactions to the treatment should fade and clear within 10-14 days after the treatment. Standard treatment regimens are:

For superficial BCC: Monday – Friday (5 times per week) for 6 weeks For actinic keratoses: 2 times per week for 16 weeks (Aldara) or nightly for 2 weeks, then 2 weeks off, then nightly for another 2 weeks (Zyclara)

4. The following information may help to make your experience more comfortable:

• Plan your treatment for a time of the year when you will have fewer social engagements. • Part of the discomfort that some people feel during the treatment is the result of the skin drying out. Often a thin coat of petroleum jelly or a mild lotion will relieve the discomfort. • You may apply make-up to the red areas during the treatment period. • During the healing phase, your doctor may prescribe a cortisone cream to help reduce the redness and inflammation. • Minimize your sun exposure during the treatment period as the medication makes the skin sun-sensitive. Apply sunscreen of at least SPF 30 if you must be exposed to the sun.

5. Most Important: Do not discontinue treatment if you are experiencing uncomfortable effects. Call your doctor to discuss methods to manage your discomfort or to arrange follow-up if needed.