Have Disseminated Superficial Actinic Porokeratosis. No Relief From Efudex. Any Alternate Remedy?

Posted on Fri, 5 Apr 2013

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 5 Apr 2013 Answered on

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 Last reviewed on

Question : Hello,
I was diagnosed with DSAP (disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis) over 10 years ago on my arms and legs. We tried Efudex and nothing happened. I try to keep up-to-date on any new treatments or medications for this condition. I would be curious to know whether you know of anything that can be done for me.
Thanks!
XXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Kalpana Pathak (3 hours later)

Hi,
Thanks for writing to us.
DSAP develops in genetically predisposed people at sites of sun exposure. The treatment options available to treat the same are quite limited. Treatment options available are
1)5 fluorouracil( efudex) that you have already tried
2)Calcipotriol- supposedly quite effective for DSAP
3)Oral retinoids like isotretinoin and acitretin with or without topicals mentioned above
4) cryotherapy of the lesions.

Personally, I would advise as much sun protection as possible with use of sunscreens having good sun protection factor even if staying indoors. Also I think you should discuss the option of using calcipotriol over your lesions with your treating dermatologist.
Hope that helps. Should there be any query, feel free to write back.
Dr Kalpana

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar