Energy-based devices for actinic keratosis field therapy

Cutaneous field cancerization arises due to UV-induced carcinogenesis of a "field" of subclinically transformed skin and actinic keratoses (AKs) with a tendency to progress and recur. Commonly used treatment methods for multiple AKs include imiquimod, fluorouracil, ingenol mebutate, and photodynamic therapy; however, new options in field-directed therapy with superior efficacy, cosmesis, and convenience may appeal to patients. Ablative and nonablative lasers may fulfill these advantages and have been investigated as monotherapies and combination therapies for field cancerization. In this article, a review of the literature on various laser modalities with a focus on efficacy is provided.