5-fluouracil (5-FU) ointment in the treatment of skin tumours and keratoses

Nonmelanoma skin cancer in organ transplant patients

Nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is more frequent in immunocompromised patients, for example, patients with organ transplants. A number of studies have been published from different countries that present a similar picture of tumors in transplant patients. In addition, the behavior of these tumors is often more aggressive in this group of high-risk patients. The multitude of NMSC and precancerous lesions presents a clinical diagnostic and therapeutic challenge to the managing dermatologists. Technology is being developed to cope with the clinical diagnosis and medical adjunct treatment to broaden the therapeutic options. It is suggested that the optimal use of these new developments occurs if patients are seen in specialized clinics aimed at providing preventive measures, diagnosis, and treatment.

Treatment of cutaneous Bowen's disease with particular emphasis on the problem of lower leg lesions

Bowen's disease has a particular predilection for the lower leg, especially in women. A review of the literature for treating Bowen's disease is presented and the problems associated with treating the lower leg emphasized. Evidence for the various treatment modalities used to treat Bowen's disease largely comes from studies that lack good methodology in terms of standardized techniques, patient controls and adequate follow-up. In particular the widely accepted recommendation for excision is not supported by evidence that this treatment is superior to other modalities. The choice of treatment for Bowen's disease should take into account the patient's general condition, the site and size of the lesion.

Successful treatment of keratoacanthoma with intralesional fluorouracil

Forty-one keratoacanthomas (KA) occurring in thirty patients were treated with weekly intralesional injections of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). Forty lesions cleared after an average of three injections in an average of 3.4 weeks (range, 2 to 6 weeks). This response suggests that intralesional injections of 5-FU are the treatment of choice for KAs.