title: Patients' perceptions of topical treatments of actinic keratosis.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  In recent years, a number of topical treatments suitable for field-directed therapy of actinic keratosis (AK) have been developed. Non-surgical treatment of AK however requires strict adherence by patients. Patients' views on the different possible topical treatments are therefore relevant to the choice of treatment. The aim of the study was to disclose the "silent perspectives" by focusing on user experiences and individual perspectives on topical treatment.
  
  
  METHODS
  Telephone interviews and face-to-face interviews were conducted with patients having had treatment with one or more of the following: imiquimod 5%, diclofenac sodium gel 3%, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) cream 5% or photodynamic therapy.
  
  
  RESULTS
  24 patients with AK were interviewed. Experiences of pain, discharging ulcers and efficiency of the treatment were of major importance. There was a general focus on appearance, social contacts and leisure time, although this appeared to be of lesser importance. Patients' perception of treatment instructions identified a risk of misunderstandings.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Patients are primarily concerned with therapeutic efficiency. Pain and ulcers are central indicators, but appearance, social contacts and leisure time can also be considered as additional indicators of satisfaction. A firm focus on patient instruction is suggested.
authors.affiliation: Department of Dermatology, Roskilde Hospital, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Roskilde , Denmark.
authors.forename: Solveig
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Esmann
authors.forename: Gregor B E
authors.initials: GB
authors.lastname: Jemec
mesh_terms: D000287:Administration, Topical; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000634:Aminoquinolines / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D004008:Diclofenac / Q000008:administration & dosage; D005260:Female; D005472:Fluorouracil / Q000008:administration & dosage; D005782:Gels; D006801:Humans; D000077271:Imiquimod; D055623:Keratosis, Actinic / Q000188:drug therapy*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care; D010778:Photochemotherapy; D011230:Precancerous Conditions / Q000188:drug therapy; D063465:Skin Cream
chemical_list: D000634:Aminoquinolines; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D005782:Gels; D004008:Diclofenac; D000077271:Imiquimod; D005472:Fluorouracil