Emerging drugs for actinic keratosis.

IMPORTANCE OF THE FIELD

Actinic keratoses (AK) represent a worldwide problem with continuously increasing incidence. AK are characterized by a proliferation of atypical keratinocytes limited to the epidermis, but they may develop into invasive squamous cell carcinoma. In this regard, novel treatment modalities have been developed that allow treatment of the whole actinically damaged field.

AREAS COVERED IN THIS REVIEW

An overview about current treatment modalities for AK including, among others, their mechanism of action, application scheme and common side effects. Furthermore, recent developments in the field are described and future aspects are discussed.

WHAT THE READER WILL GAIN

The reader of this review will be informed about all current treatment modalities for AK. Furthermore, the reader will gain knowledge about ongoing research in this field and novel topical drugs for the treatment of AK.

TAKE HOME MESSAGE

Many treatment modalities are available for the treatment of AK. Recent developments have focused on the management of the whole actinically damaged field. In this regard, several topical drugs have been approved for AK, differing in clearance rates, side effects, application and cost. Research is continuing aiming in the development of the "ideal" treatment of AK which combines high clearance rates with few side effects, short treatment duration and low costs.