Imiquimod induces sustained remission of actinic damage: a case report spanning one decade of observation.

Actinic keratosis (AK), basal cell carcinoma (BCC), and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) are strongly linked to chronic UV radiation exposure. Although surgical treatment is necessary for advanced skin cancers, the use of topical 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and imiquimod are well established for treatment of early skin cancers and as field therapy for diffuse actinic damage. We present the case of a patient who underwent field therapy with topical 5-FU for diffuse actinic damage and AKs and showed no inflammatory response within the perimeter of a prior BCC that had been treated with imiquimod 10 years prior. In addition to the drug effects of imiquimod on atypical keratinocytes, it also may have photoprotective effects.