Danger Lurks

Approximately 8% to 10% of actinic keratosis (AK) will develop into intraepithelial squamous cell carcinoma. When it comes to treating AK, research shows that dermatologists are very consistent and set in their ways because of their satisfaction with current treatments—from cryotherapy to topicals to the most commonly used photodynamic therapy (PDT) brand. Their satisfaction extends beyond clinical expectations and results to include financial aspects and fit with practice and patient flow.

AMELUZ® (aminolevulinic acid hydrochloride) topical gel, 10%, was the first and only PDT approved for field-directed treatment of AK and a clinical profile that delivered high clearance rates, but despite that, had experienced low awareness and slow uptake. This was due primarily to launching into a market that was dominated by entrenched behavior/mindsets and a complacent PDT market leader.