Name of the Procedure:

Topical Application of Aminolevulinic Acid HCl, 10% Gel (J7345)

Summary

The application of Aminolevulinic Acid HCl is a topical treatment involving a gel that contains 10% of the active ingredient, specifically used to treat certain skin conditions. This procedure is commonly used to address pre-cancerous and cancerous growths on the skin.

Purpose

The primary purpose of this treatment is to target and destroy abnormal or pre-cancerous cells on the skin surface. It is commonly used to treat conditions like actinic keratoses, which are rough, scaly patches on the skin caused by years of sun exposure.

Indications

• Actinic keratoses
• Certain types of superficial skin cancers
• Patients with sun-damaged skin resulting in pre-cancerous lesions

Preparation

• Avoid applying any other skin products to the target area before the procedure.
• Discuss any medications or supplements you are currently taking with your healthcare provider.
• Conduct skin evaluations or biopsies as necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

Procedure Description

1. Preparation: Clean and dry the affected area to remove any dirt, oil, or residues.
2. Application: Apply a thin layer of Aminolevulinic Acid HCl, 10% gel, to the target skin area.
3. Incubation: Allow the gel to be absorbed; this phase usually lasts for a few hours.
4. Activation: Expose the treated area to a specific wavelength of light (such as blue or red light) to activate the gel. This will help to destroy the abnormal, pre-cancerous, or cancerous cells.

Tools & Equipment:

• Aminolevulinic Acid HCl, 10% gel
• Light source for activation

Anesthesia/Sedation:

• Typically, no anesthesia or sedation is required.

Duration

The gel application takes a few minutes, while the incubation phase can last several hours. The light activation typically takes 15-30 minutes.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic or a dermatologist's office.

Personnel

• Dermatologist or trained healthcare professional
• Supporting clinical staff as needed

Risks and Complications

• Redness, swelling, or itching at the application site
• Photosensitivity (increased sensitivity to light)
• Temporary discoloration or peeling of the skin
• Rarely, infection or scarring

Benefits

• Non-invasive treatment for pre-cancerous and some cancerous skin conditions
• Minimal recovery time compared to surgical options
• Effective targeting and destruction of abnormal cells, reducing the risk of progression to skin cancer

Recovery

• Avoid sun exposure and wear protective clothing to lessen photosensitivity for a few days post-procedure.
• Follow up with your healthcare provider to monitor the treated area.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used to manage any discomfort.

Alternatives

• Cryotherapy (freezing off the lesions)
• Electrodessication and curettage (scraping and burning off the lesions)
• Topical chemotherapy creams (e.g., fluorouracil)
• Surgical removal for more advanced or resistant cases

Pros and Cons:

• Cryotherapy: Quick, but can cause blistering and hyperpigmentation
• Topical chemotherapy: Effective but can cause significant skin irritation
• Surgery: Highly effective but more invasive with longer recovery

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients may feel a slight tingling or burning sensation when the light activates the gel. Post-procedure, some redness, peeling, and mild discomfort are common, but these symptoms usually resolve within a few days. Pain management options include OTC pain relievers and cool compresses for comfort.