Adults 18 and older with rough, scaly or crusty discolored sunspots or bumps on their faces and/or scalp are needed for a clinical research study evaluating an investigational drug for the treatment of actinic keratosis (sunlight-induced lesions), on the face and scalp. The study will take place at Rhode Island Hospital and will involve application of a topical cream to the affected area. Examinations by board-certified dermatologists, study-related clinic visits, and the study drug will be provided free of charge. Qualified research participants will also receive compensation for time and travel.

Recruitment for the study is ongoing and is expected to continue through August 2008. Participants will need to be available for six clinical visits over a 24-week period.

Actinic keratosis can be the first step in the development of skin cancer. It is estimated that 10 to 15 percent of active lesions will take the next step and progress to squamous cell carcinomas. These cancers are usually not life- threatening, provided they are detected and treated in the early stages.

Half of all older, fair-skinned persons that live in sunny areas have actinic keratosis, which is the result of long-term exposure to sunlight. As summer begins and sun exposure increases, this is a crucial time to have suspicious facial spots inspected.

For more information, please contact the Rhode Island Hospital dermatology research unit at 401-444-7853.