Simultaneous Skin Rejuvenation in Patients Undergoing Medical Treatment for Actinic Keratosis and Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer: A Case Series Analysis

Abstract

This original article presents the findings of a comprehensive case series, shedding light on the efficacy of diverse treatment modalities for managing precancerous and cancerous skin lesions and their remarkable rejuvenation effects on the skin. A particular focus is placed on the promising outcomes achieved through the application of a combination treatment involving 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) and salicylic acid, which demonstrates enduring and noteworthy results. Furthermore, alternative therapeutic approaches, including 5-FU monotherapy, Methyl aminolevulinate–photodynamic therapy (MAL-PDT), and the combination of Imiquimod therapy with MAL-PDT, exhibit substantial potential for patients seeking non-surgical solutions. These treatments manifest as valuable tools in improving skin texture and mitigating the effects of photodamage. Nevertheless, the intricate interplay between the chosen treatment, the extent of photodamage, and individual patient characteristics, with a particular emphasis on age, necessitates long-term follow-up to gauge treatment outcomes and the likelihood of lesion recurrence. Notably, these treatments are associated with a significant degree of inflammation, igniting curiosity regarding enhanced skin cellular turnover and the potential for a more youthful skin appearance. Our findings accentuate the promise of topical fluorouracil (5-FU) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) in combating photoaging among patients with actinic keratoses. However, a need for further in-depth research is evident to unravel the nuanced relationships between these treatments, the severity of photodamage, and the influence of patient-specific factors. Such comprehensive investigations are instrumental in optimizing patient care and outcomes, offering a holistic approach to managing photodamage within the context of actinic keratoses. This work, when combined with existing literature, provides valuable insights and serves as a catalyst for future research to fully unlock the potential of these treatments, ultimately enhancing the quality of patient care.