Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 24, 2025

The Goeckerman Regimen for the Treatment of Moderate to Severe Psoriasis
Published on: July 11, 2013
Advances and Considerations in the Management of Actinic Keratosis: An Expert Consensus Panel Report
Background:
Actinic Keratosis (AK) is a potentially pre-malignant tumor with a poorly defined risk of progression to invasive squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Because of the typical need for recurrent cycles of AK treatment, outcomes can be limited by both therapeutic efficacy and patient adherence.
Objective:
To synthesize the available and most current literature into overarching principles to provide guidance on the management of AKs, improving patient experiences and treatment outcomes.
Methods:
A systematic review querying epidemiology, natural history, prognosis, management of AKs as well as the mechanism of action of and adherence to current AK therapy was conducted. After reviewing the literature, an expert consensus panel consisting of 10 expert dermatologists and dermatopathologists used a modified Delphi process to develop statements regarding the pathogenesis and management of AKs. Final statements were only adopted with a supermajority vote (≥7/10).
Results:
The panel developed 7 consensus statements regarding AKs pathogenesis and management.
Conclusion:
The poorly defined risk for AK progression into invasive SCC without universally accepted clinical-histopathological factors highlights the importance of long-term efficacious treatment. To effectively counsel and treat patients with actinic keratoses, dermatologists must understand how newer therapeutic approaches with mechanisms of action that have more rapid onset of action, shorter treatment courses, and less intense local skin reaction (LSRs) may promote adherence and improve long-term outcomes. J Drugs Dermatol. 2021;20(8):888-893. doi:10.36849/JDD.6078 THIS ARTICLE HAD BEEN MADE AVAILABLE FREE OF CHARGE. PLEASE SCROLL DOWN TO ACCESS THE FULL fTEXT OF THIS ARTICLE WITHOUT LOGGING IN. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. PLEASE CONTACT THE PUBLISHER WITH ANY QUESTIONS.
Insights
Actinic Keratosis (AK) management requires understanding treatment efficacy and patient adherence. Newer therapies for AKs may improve outcomes through faster action and shorter treatment courses, enhancing patient compliance.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Oncology
- Dermatopathology
Background:
- Actinic Keratosis (AK) is a pre-malignant skin condition with uncertain progression risk to invasive squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).
- Recurrent AK treatment cycles can be hindered by therapeutic efficacy and patient adherence challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize current literature on AK management into guiding principles.
- To enhance patient experiences and treatment outcomes for Actinic Keratosis.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review on AK epidemiology, natural history, prognosis, and management.
- Expert consensus panel (10 dermatologists/dermatopathologists) using a modified Delphi process.
- Development and supermajority adoption of consensus statements on AK pathogenesis and management.
Main Results:
- Seven consensus statements on Actinic Keratosis pathogenesis and management were developed by the expert panel.
Conclusions:
- The undefined risk of AK progression to SCC necessitates long-term, effective treatment strategies.
- Understanding newer AK therapies with rapid onset, shorter courses, and reduced local skin reactions is crucial for dermatologist counseling and improved patient adherence and outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
Skin Cancer
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. It typically develops in...
Changes in Skin Color: Clinical Perspectives
Albinism
Albinism is a genetic disorder that affects (completely or partially) the coloring of skin, hair, and eyes. The defect is primarily...
Clinical Applications of Epidermal Stem Cells
Renewal of Skin Epidermal Stem Cells
Angle Closure Glaucoma: Treatment
Open Angle Glaucoma: Treatment
Drugs such as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, α2- and...

