Assembling a consensus on actinic cheilitis: A Delphi study

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Oral Medicine
• Oncology

Background:

• Actinic cheilitis (AC) is a common condition affecting the lips, often associated with chronic sun exposure.
• Its classification and management have been subjects of debate due to varying diagnostic criteria and potential for malignant transformation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a consensus on the terminology, classification, diagnosis, and treatment of actinic cheilitis (AC).
• To address the lack of agreement on diagnostic procedures and biopsy indications for AC.

Main Methods:

• A two-round Delphi study was conducted with experts.
• A questionnaire assessed terminology, malignant potential, diagnosis, and treatment of AC using closed and open-ended questions.
• Expert agreement was measured using a Likert scale.

Main Results:

• Consensus was achieved on 73.5% of statements regarding AC terminology, classification, and management.
• Actinic cheilitis (AC) is agreed upon as the preferred term and classified as a 'potentially malignant disorder'.
• While experts consider AC a clinical diagnosis, histopathological confirmation is deemed mandatory for management.

Conclusions:

• Actinic cheilitis (AC) is a potentially malignant disorder, with consensus reached on its nomenclature and management.
• Significant disagreement persists regarding diagnostic criteria, biopsy indications, and assisting techniques for AC.
• Further research and standardized guidelines are needed to improve diagnostic consistency for AC.