Successful Use of Grenz Rays for Disseminated Superficial Actinic Porokeratosis: Report of 8 Cases

Dermatology. 2017;233(2-3):217-222. doi: 10.1159/000478855. Epub 2017 Aug 18.

Abstract

Background: Disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis (DSAP) is a rare keratinization disorder with potential malignant transformation, for which present treatment strategies show limited success.

Aim: To evaluate the response of DSAP lesions to grenz ray radiotherapy (RTx).

Methods: Data of patients treated with RTx at University Hospital Zurich, Switzerland, between 2004 and 2015, were reviewed. Patients with DSAP, who received at least 1 RTx treatment session and who had been followed up for at least 4 weeks were included in the further data analysis.

Results: The study cohort consisted of 8 patients with a median age of 73 years (range 54-84). All were treated with grenz rays for DSAP. Most (7/8) patients showed complete clinical clearing of the lesions. All patients experienced temporary side effects of RTx, which resolved within 4 weeks after the last irradiation.

Conclusion: We suggest radiotherapy with grenz rays as a treatment option for DSAP.

Keywords: Disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis; Grenz rays; Radiotherapy.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Porokeratosis / radiotherapy*
  • Radiotherapy Dosage
  • Retreatment
  • Treatment Outcome
  • X-Ray Therapy* / adverse effects