For those that have spent a lot of time in the sun over the years, or have a family history of skin cancer, it’s best to see your doctor for a regular skin cancer check up.

IDENTIFYING SKIN CANCER EARLY
Skin cancer is the most common cancer affecting New Zealanders.

Many of us keep an eye on our freckles and moles, looking for any noticeable changes. As one of the main types of skin cancer, superficial basal cell carcinoma (sBCC) is a common, although less dangerous type that is readily treatable if identified early.

FACTS ABOUT SUPERFICIAL BASAL CELL CARCINOMAS (SBCC)
Superficial basal cell carcinoma (sBCC) can vary in shape and colour.

• Often occurs in people under 60 years of age
• Exact cause is unknown, although intense and intermittent sun exposure is thought to be a factor
• Mainly affects fair-skinned people, and more commonly occurs on the trunk and limbs
• Typically appears as a bright pink, shiny lump that, if stretched, can look pearly
• Often grows slowly over months or years
• Readily erodes with minor injury
• Usually painless, but may itch
• Requires medical diagnosis by the doctor.

TREATMENT OPTIONS AVAILABLE
Superficial basal cell carcinoma is usually treated with surgery to remove the cancerous skin cells. However for some people surgery may not be appropriate:
–  When the patient is prone to scarring
–  Where there are large or multiple lesions
–  Where there is a greater risk of infection
–  Where there are circulation or bleeding disorders
–  Immobile patients in nursing homes or residential care.

An effective treatment for these people may be Aldara™, a cream that works by stimulating the body’s own immune system to recognise and clear the sBCC. Aldara is now a fully funded medicine available from your doctor.*  

HOW DOES ALDARA WORK?
Aldara is a cream applied to the sBCC once a day for 5 consecutive days each week over a 6 week period. Aldara works by stimulating the body’s own immune (defense) system to clear the sBCC cells. When applied to the skin, cells are activated and go to the affected area. During treatment, the treated area is likely to redden and look different from normal skin, which is a sign Aldara cream is working. 

Aldara cream is effective in 8 out of 10 patients from clinical studies.¹

If you have a suspicious spot on your skin, see your doctor now as it may be a superficial basal cell carcinoma. If it is, then treating early is important. Your doctor will decide if Aldara is the best treatment option for you.

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*Aldara is fully funded on Special Authority for confirmed superficial BCC-Special Authority criteria apply. 1. Geisse J, et al. J Am Acad Dermatol 2004;50:722-33. Aldara  is a Prescription Medicine containing imiquimod 12.5mg per 250mg sachet. Uses: Topical treatment of superficial basal cell carcinomas. Ask your doctor if Aldara is right for you. Do not use if you are allergic to imiquimod or any of the ingredients. Avoid  UV exposure -sunlight and tanning lamps. Do not use if pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have a compromised immune system. Tell your doctor of any other treatments you are using. Side effects: Common: Skin reactions such as redness, swelling, small open sores and oozing, skin peeling, scabbing and crusting, pain, tenderness, itching and burning. Less common: muscle aches, tiredness, flu-like symptoms and diarrhoea. Do not apply near the  eyes, ears, lips and nostrils. Medicines have benefits and some may have risks. Always read the label and use strictly as directed. If symptoms continue or you have side effects, see your doctor, pharmacist or health professional. Normal doctor’s visit fees and pharmacy charges will apply. Additional information on Aldara can be obtained from Douglas Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Central Park Drive Lincoln Auckland 0610. Ph 09 835 0660 Fax 09 835 0665. Consumer Medicine Information is available from Medsafe at www.medsafe.govt.co.nz TAPS PP5968

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