Treat All AKs to Prevent Skin Cancer

Positive results have also been seen when imiquimod is combined with cryosurgery, noted Dr. Bettencourt. She also recommended considering diclofenac gel after cryosurgery.

Whatever treatment is deemed best for the AK patient, he or she should be strongly encouraged to avoid the sun whenever possible, to wear protective clothing, to use sunscreen, and to limit outdoor activity between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., she concluded. A low-fat diet may also lead to a greater resolution of existent AKs and may limit the development of future lesions.

Dr. Bettencourt reported being on the speakers bureaus of PharmaDerm and Graceway, and conducting clinical trials for 3M Pharmaceuticals.