Low‐dose 5‐fluorouracil in combination with salicylic acid for the treatment of actinic keratoses on the hands and/or forearms – results of a non‐interventional study. (23rd September 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Reinhold, U.; Hadshiew, I.; Melzer, A.; Prechtl, A.
• Is Part Of: Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology. Volume 31:Number 3(2017)
• Page Start: 455
• Page End: 462
• Publication Date: 2016-09-23
• Subjects: Dermatology -- Periodicals; Sexually transmitted diseases -- Periodicals; 616.5
• DOI: 10.1111/jdv.13935
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0926-9959

Abstract

Abstract: Background: As an in situ carcinoma, actinic keratoses should be treated early. Previous studies on the efficacy of a low‐dose 0.5% 5‐fluorouracil solution in combination with 10% salicylic acid (low‐dose 5‐FU/SA) are mostly related to lesions appearing on the head and face. In contrast, actinic keratoses (AK) lesions of the upper extremities are considered to be difficult to treat. Objective: The efficacy of low‐dose 5‐FU/SA in the treatment of actinic keratoses on the hands and/or forearms was studied for the first time in this non‐interventional study (NIS) under practical conditions in a large patient population. In addition to the clinical course during therapy and a follow‐up period, the length of application and adherence were documented. Methods: As part of this NIS, 649 patients with AK were treated at 207 centres with low‐dose 5‐FU/SA. The data of the study were recorded at baseline, optionally during an intermediate examination, at the end of therapy and during a final assessment. Results: The average number of AK lesions decreased during the entire observation period by 92%. Side‐effects were documented only rarely in the form of local skin reactions (2%). The attending physicians assessed the efficacy, tolerability and safety of the therapy as being predominantly very good or good (in each case ≥90%). Conclusion: AK lesions on the hands and/or forearms were effectively treated with low‐dose 5‐FU/SA under routine conditions in dermatological practice and the treatment was well tolerated.