Abstract
Background: Actinic keratoses (AKs) are epidermal neoplasms with a risk of progression to squamous cell carcinoma. Multiple therapeutic options targeting single or multiple lesions, with varying degrees of clearance, have been described. Objective: Evaluate the number of cycles of 5% potassium hydroxide (KOH) solution required for the resolution of actinic keratosis. Methods: This study was conducted on 261 AK lesions in 29 patients. A cycle of application of KOH was indicated in 28 doses with a subsequent monthly clinical and dermoscopic review for a maximum of three cycles of application. Resolution was determined dermoscopically. Results: Dermoscopic resolution was observed in 203 (77.7%) lesions, obtaining a mean number of cycles for a complete resolution of 2.4. Better results were observed in patients who received three cycles than in those who received one or two cycles (p = 0.003 and p = 0.000, respectively). The most common adverse effect was burning, followed by xerosis (69 and 21%, respectively). Conclusions: The 5% KOH solution represents a promising therapeutic option for the treatment of single lesions of actinic keratosis, with an adequate response and tolerable use profile for patients. Based on our results, we suggest the use of 5% KOH solution in AKs with Olsen clinical classification I or II.
Published Version
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