Photodamage Flashcards
(12 cards)
What are actinic (solar) keratoses?
Rough, scaly patches on the skin caused by long-term UV exposure; they are precancerous lesions with potential to develop into squamous cell carcinoma.
Which topical treatment can be used for dry, sun-damaged elderly skin?
Emollients, possibly with added urea or salicylic acid, although their direct effect is unclear.
What is diclofenac sodium gel used for in actinic keratosis treatment?
It is used for superficial lesions in mild disease and causes less inflammation than other treatments.
What topical treatment is effective for most types of non-hypertrophic actinic keratosis?
Fluorouracil cream.
What is photodynamic therapy (PDT) and when is it used?
PDT uses a photosensitizing agent and light to destroy abnormal cells; used for extensive or cosmetically sensitive actinic keratosis lesions when other treatments are unsuitable.
Photosensitizing cream is applied, absorbed by abnormal cells, then activated by light to produce oxygen radicals that destroy those cells.
Which treatments are licensed for superficial basal cell carcinomas (BCC)?
Imiquimod and fluorouracil creams.
When is photodynamic therapy used for basal cell carcinoma?
For thin nodular or superficial BCCs, especially when other treatments are unsuitable or for large, multiple, or cosmetically sensitive lesions.
How does fluorouracil work on skin lesions?
It interferes with DNA synthesis in abnormal cells, leading to their destruction.
What side effect is commonly seen with fluorouracil treatment on the skin?
A marked inflammatory reaction (redness, irritation, inflammation) at the treatment site.
Can fluorouracil be combined with other agents for thicker keratotic lesions?
Yes, it can be combined with salicylic acid for low or moderately thick hyperkeratotic actinic keratosis.
What precautions should patients take during fluorouracil treatment?
Avoid prolonged sunlight exposure and use sun protection due to increased skin sensitivity.
What drug class is fluorouracil?
Fluorouracil belongs to the drug class called antimetabolites, specifically a pyrimidine analogue.
