Aldara
Aldara is a skin cream that activates the immune system and helps fight certain skin conditions like genital warts, actinic keratosis and superficial basal cell carcinoma. However, Aldara can make some conditions worse, result in skin erosion and make the skin highly susceptible to sunburn.
Genital warts are caused by the sexually transmitted human papillomavirus (HPV). Genital warts often grow together in sexual regions of the body, and can disappear on their own. In extreme cases, medication like Aldara is used to ease symptoms and help prevent further warts.
Actinic keratosis is also known as sunspots or precancerous spots. The spots can be a variety of color, and are usually most noticeable by touch; they are rough, dry and scaly to the touch. These spots will often disappear on their own if the person avoids sunburn and extra sun exposure for a few years. Actinic keratosis usually occurs on the face or the top of the head (especially in bald spots).
Superficial basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer. This cancer can be treated and completely healed if it is caught early. These skin spots are more easily noticeable than actinic keratosis; they are lumps that can vary in color, but they are easily visible to the eye and sometimes bleed or are covered by scabs.
All skin discolorations and bumps should be checked by a dermatologist, because skin cancer affects more than 1 million people each year, according to the National Cancer Institute. Skin cancer is almost completely caused by exposure to the sun, so wearing sunscreen and protective clothing is important.
Aldara is prescribed to help patients with these conditions, but in some cases, Aldara makes the conditions worse and can result in skin erosion and lead to painful and dangerous sunburns.
Aldara can cause:
- skin inflammation and erosion, during which the skin begins to flake and fall off
- ultraviolet light exposure sensitivity
- flu-like symptoms
If you experience an injury caused by Aldara, consult your doctor and contact a personal injury attorney.
