5-Fluorouracil superficial peel for multiple actinic keratoses.

BACKGROUND

Chronically photodamaged skin usually presents with multiple, widespread, actinic keratoses (AKs), and treatment of the entire affected area is recommended.

METHODS

We report our experience with a combination of Jessner's solution or 70% glycolic acid (GA) with 5% 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) solution for superficial pulse peeling used in the treatment of widespread AKs in 31 patients. Pulse peelings were performed at biweekly intervals. The endpoint for treatment was complete or maximum clearance of the lesions at clinical evaluation. Pre- and post-skin biopsy and histopathologic examination were performed in three patients for the purpose of demonstrating the pulse peel effects.

RESULTS

All patients achieved a satisfactory result, including the complete regression, or at least 80% clearing, of AK lesions and an overall improvement of photodamaged skin.

CONCLUSION

We consider this superficial 5-FU pulse peel to be a safe, well-tolerated, very effective, and highly inexpensive therapeutic option for the treatment of multiple, diffuse AKs. Its benefit/cost ratio will be of interest to public health services, mainly in developing countries.