Epidemiological and clinical analysis of exposure-related factors in non-melanoma skin cancer: A retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: The incidence of non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs) increased over last decades, probably due to environmental concerns or to the increase of frail patients with age related comorbidities. Currently, the relationship of increasing global skin cancer rates with increased ultraviolet radiations (UVRs) resulting from stratospheric ozone depletion, global warming, and air pollution from fossil-fuel combustion. AIMS: We conducted a retrospective epidemiological study including 546 NMSC patients managed at the Dermatology Unit of the Tor Vergata Hospital to highlight different trends of sun exposure or different comorbidities. METHODS: Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed to evidence differences between continous variable and Spearman rank test for dicotomical variables. Charlson Comorbidity Index was calculated to obtain the 10-years survival rate in order to identify the mean comorbidity burden of our patients. RESULTS: Considering patients with comorbidities (73.81%), actinic keratoses (AKs) was the most frequent lesion. In patients with a history of previous melanoma, basal cell carcinoma (BCC) was predominant (ANOVA test, p < 0.05) with a statistically significant correlation (rho = 0.453; p < 0.01). Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) showed a higher rate in arterial hypertension patients, followed by the chronic heart failure and hematologic neoplasms (60%, 29.7% and 32.1%, respectively) groups. Men were more affected than women, representing 61.54% of patients. Chronic sun exposure is directly correlated with SCC rho = 0.561; p < 0.01), whereas BCC correlated with a history of sunburns (rho = 0.312; p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: History of photo-exposition had an important role on NMSC development especially for work or recreational reasons. Sex, age, and presence of comorbidities influenced different NMSC types. BCC was more frequent in younger patients, associated with melanoma and sunburns. The presence of SCC is associated with older patients and the hypertension group. AKs were diagnosed predominantly in oldest men, with a chronic sun-exposure history, and hematologic neoplasms group.

Preliminary Evidence of Efficacy, Safety, and Treatment Satisfaction with Tirbanibulin 1% Ointment: A Clinical Perspective on Actinic Keratoses.

BACKGROUND: Actinic keratosis is a common precancerous skin lesion that can progress into invasive squamous cell carcinomas. Many topical treatments for actinic keratoses often have poor tolerability and prolonged duration. Tirbanibulin is a novel synthetic drug with potent antitumor and antiproliferative activities. METHODS: We conducted a single-center, prospective and observational study using tirbanibulin ointment on a 25 cm2 area for 5 consecutive days on 30 participants with AKs on the face or scalp. They were followed for at least 57 days to assess the safety profile and efficacy of the drug as well as treatment satisfaction. We evaluated six signs of local skin reaction (LSR): erythema, scaling, crusting, swelling, blisters/pustules, and erosions/ulcerations, grading the severity as mild, moderate, or severe. The effectiveness was evaluated both clinically and dermoscopically. The treatment satisfaction was assessed using the Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication (TSQM 1.4). RESULTS: On day 57, 70% of the patients showed a complete clinical and dermoscopic response. The highest scores obtained from the TSQM 1.4 were more evident in the convenience and side effects domains. Most LSRs, including erythema (83.3%), scaling (30%), and swelling (3.3%), occurred on day 8 but resolved spontaneously. CONCLUSION: Tirbanibulin is a viable therapeutic option with a short regimen treatment and good tolerability, which favors therapy adherence.

Topical Treatment of Actinic Keratosis and Metalloproteinase Expression: A Clinico-Pathological Retrospective Study.

Actinic keratosis is an intraepithelial proliferation of atypical keratinocytes that could progress into invasive squamous cell carcinoma. Most evidence suggests an important role of the dermal matrix metalloproteinases in the progression of atypical skin epithelial lesions. We evaluated the clinical efficacy of three different therapeutic modalities (a medical device containing 0.8% piroxicam cream and 50+ sunscreen, photodynamic therapy, and ingenol mebutate gel) to treat suspicious actinic keratoses, which were biopsied for histopathological examination and then analyzed for the expression of matrix metalloproteinases by immunohistochemistry. Clinical, dermoscopic, and reflectance confocal microscopy evaluations revealed a gradual decrease in all standard scores validated for actinic keratosis assessment at the end of the treatments. From a histopathological point of view, we documented the substantial restoration of normal skin architecture, while the immunohistochemical evaluation of matrix metalloproteinases showed a reduction in expression in the treated skin lesions compared to the baseline. As actinic keratoses are considered the precursors of squamous cell carcinoma, their treatment is crucial to prevent the development of a more aggressive disease. Our study monitored the evolution of actinic keratoses subjected to three different topical therapies, with the value of correlating clinical and histopathological findings. Moreover, as the matrix metalloproteinases are largely recognized factors involved in the pathogenesis and evolution of actinic keratosis to squamous cell carcinoma, the demonstration by immunohistochemistry of a reduction in their expression after the treatments adds new valuable concern to the field.

Early clinical response to 5-fluorouracil 0.5% and salicylic acid 10% topical solution in the treatment of actinic keratoses of the head: an observational study.

BACKGROUND: Actinic keratosis is one of the most common dermatological disorders. A new topical solution, constituted by 0.5% 5-fluorouracil and 10% salicylic acid (Actikerall, Almirall) has been introduced in the treatment pipeline of hyperkeratotic actinic keratoses of the head and neck. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We analyzed in an observational prospective clinical study the short-term treatment effectiveness of 5-fluorouracil and salicylic acid on face and scalp actinic keratoses of grade 1 and 2 of 40 patients. Efficacy assessment was performed by clinical dermatological examination, collecting color photographs, calculating AKASI score, and by means of dermoscopy for each target lesion at every visit. RESULTS: AKASI score decreased from an initial score of 3.3 to a final score of 0.9. At week 4, we were able to record a complete clearance of 50% of the treated lesions and a partial clearance of 28%. At the end of 12 weeks, 84% of the total lesions showed complete clearance, while 8% had partial clearance. CONCLUSIONS: 5-fluorouracil and salicylic acid topical solution is effective in the treatment of mild to moderate actinic keratoses. In the future, further studies are needed to evaluate the chance of adjusting drug dosage according to patients' and actinic keratoses features.

Patidegib in Dermatology: A Current Review.

BACKGROUND: Basal cell carcinoma is one of the most common types of non-melanoma skin cancers, which can be locally destructive despite low-rate metastasis. Surgery is the treatment of choice, but it lacks of efficacy on advanced cases. Hedgehog pathway inhibitors are a class of drugs providing a new therapeutic option for patients affected by advanced disease. Besides systemic therapy, such as vismodegib and sonidegib, also topical inhibitors have been developed. Patidegib is able to decrease tumor burden, reducing the adverse effects induced by systemic targeted therapies. METHODS: We performed comprehensive research to summarize the use of patidegib in advanced and recurrent aggressive basal cell carcinomas. Only English language human studies were included in the search. RESULTS: Seven trials reported the application of patidegib. Both topical and systemic patidegib demonstrated safety, tolerability, and efficacy in naïve patients with stage II and III basal cell carcinomas, while stage IV disease and not-naïve patients did not show any benefit. CONCLUSION: Unlike systemic Hedgehog pathway inhibitors, patidegib 2% gel is not associated with systemic adverse effects and allows a better patient management. Considering the multidisciplinary management of neoplasia, in the era of precision medicine, it is mandatory to confide in pharmacogenomics to obtain personalized combined or sequential therapies.

Combination of Laser Therapy and Photodynamic Therapy with 5-Aminolevulinic Acid Patch for the Treatment of Actinic Cheilitis.

Background: Actinic cheilitis (AC) is a premalignant lesion of the lips that can evolve into squamous cell carcinoma. Among nonsurgical treatments, photodynamic therapy (PDT) with 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) patch might represent a new noninvasive therapeutic approach for AC. Objective: We sought to investigate the potential role of fractional CO2 laser pretreatment in boosting ALA penetration and distribution into AC treated with PDT. Methods: We report a case of a woman with AC on the lower lip, treated with ablative fractional CO2 laser to boost drug delivery of 5-ALA patch before PDT treatment. Reflectance confocal microscopy was performed to assess diagnosis and treatment response. Results: We detected a good clinical and cosmetic outcome after two applications of combined treatment. Erythema, crust, and edema were reported as side effects. Conclusions: This case report shows that ablative fractional CO2 laser-assisted PDT might be an effective therapeutic alternative for patients with AC who refuse or are contraindicated for surgical procedures.

Long-Term Follow-Up for Q-Switched Nd:YAG Treatment of Nevus of Ota: Are High Number of Treatments Really Required? A Case Report.

Objective: Q-switched laser is considered a gold standard treatment for Nevus of Ota (NO). We report how few laser sessions in long intervals of time may achieve satisfying outcomes reducing the rate of possible procedure-linked side effects such as burning, cornea injuries, or hyperpigmentation. Background: NO represents a congenital dermal melanocytosis in the trigeminal distribution majorly occurring in Asian individuals. Multiple reports have shown efficacy and safety of Q-switched laser for the treatment of this condition, but they were based on an empiric regimen, often leading to unnecessary overtreatments. At the best of our knowledge, no long-term follow-up observations of single laser sessions have been conducted to assess the proper intervals and number of treatments. Materials and methods: A 36-year-old Asian woman, Fitzpatrick skin type IV with clinical diagnosis of NO, was treated with 1064 nm 6 ns Q-switched laser one session per year for a total of two sessions. Clinical result was valued by two physicians independently using standardized and polarized light. No use of general anesthesia or sedation was needed in our experience. Corneal shields have been used. Results: After only two sessions of the Q-switched laser performed 1 year apart, the result was excellent with a 95% of clinical response. No side effect was observed. Conclusions: In our experience, Q-switched Nd:YAG laser is an effective treatment for NO with no necessity of high number of treatments. A larger population is needed to confirm this preliminary result.

Latest Evidence Regarding the Effects of Photosensitive Drugs on the Skin: Pathogenetic Mechanisms and Clinical Manifestations.

Photosensitivity induced by drugs is a widely experienced problem, concerning both molecule design and clinical practice. Indeed, photo-induced cutaneous eruptions represent one of the most common drug adverse events and are frequently an important issue to consider in the therapeutic management of patients. Phototoxicity and photoallergy are the two different pathogenic mechanisms involved in photosensitization. Related cutaneous manifestations are heterogeneous, depending on the culprit drug and subject susceptibility. Here we report an updated review of the literature with respect to pathogenic mechanisms of photosensitivity, clinical manifestations, patient management, and prediction and evaluation of drug-induced photosensitivity. We present and discuss principal groups of photosensitizing drugs (antimicrobials, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, anti-hypertensives, anti-arrhythmics, cholesterol, and glycemia-lowering agents, psychotropic drugs, chemotherapeutics, etc.) and their main damage mechanisms according to recent evidence. The link between the drug and the cutaneous manifestation is not always clear; more investigations would be helpful to better predict drug photosensitizing potential, prevent and manage cutaneous adverse events and find the most appropriate alternative therapeutic strategy.

5-Aminolaevulinic acid patch photodynamic therapy for the treatment of actinic keratoses: preliminary results from an Italian study in the real-life setting.

BACKGROUND: Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is recommended for both lesion and field therapy of actinic keratoses (AKs). The 5-aminolaevulinic acid (5-ALA) patch PDT is indicated for the treatment of isolated mild AKs (≤1.8 cm) on the face and bald scalp. It was demonstrated to be effective and safe in clinical trials with a good tolerability profile. METHODS: In this retrospective multicenter real-life study, 33 patients with a total of 99 AKs of the scalp, face, ears, and/or hands and 2 actinic cheilitis were treated with one treatment session of 5-ALA patch PDT with a red light source (total dose of 37 J/cm2). RESULTS: Overall, 12 weeks after treatment, 68/99 (69%) lesions were completely cleared. Complete response was obtained in 82% of AKs on the ears, 78% on the face, 57% on the hands, and 56% on the scalp and in the two actinic cheilitis. The treatment was very effective on grade I AKs, cleared in 87% of the cases and less efficient on grade II-III lesions, cleared in 47% of the cases. 5-ALA patch PDT was well tolerated with a good to excellent cosmetic outcome in 97% of the patients and with 94% of the patients being satisfied or very satisfied with the treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Our results confirm that 5-ALA patch PDT is a good option for AK treatment in clinical practice, it is easy to use, effective and well tolerated even in difficult-to-treat-areas. Moreover, it has an excellent cosmetic outcome.

New Insight in Noninvasive Rejuvenation: The Role of a Rhodamine-Intense Pulsed Light System.

Background: Rhodamine-intense pulsed light (r-IPL) is a noncoherent, noncollimated, polychromatic light energy optimized for a double-peak wavelength emission, ranging between 550-680 and 850-1200 nm. Traditional IPL works within visible and infrared spectra, targeting hemoglobin and melanin, are effective to treat rosacea and pigmentary disorders. r-IPL, a new technology in dermatology, emits high-intensity light with a wavelength peak similar to the one of the pulsed dye lasers, showing a good safety and efficacy profile in nonablative photorejuvenation. Objective: Assess efficacy and safety of r-IPL on photodamaged facial skin showing hyperpigmentation, telangiectasias, fine lines, and textural changes. Methods: Five sessions of r-IPL treatment (fluence ranged between 13.5 and 14 J/cm2) have been performed on one 75-year-old lady affected by facial photodamaged skin. Efficacy of treatment was evaluated using the Fitzpatrick Elastosis and Wrinkles Scale (FEWS) and the Global Aesthetic Improvement (GAI) Scale assessed by an investigator, compared with baseline. Treatment safety and tolerance were also evaluated using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Results: Photographic and multispectral evaluation demonstrated relevant improvement (vascular, pigment, and texture) of photodamaged facial skin. One month after the last treatment, significant improvement in facial wrinkle and texture was noted. FEWS scores decreased significantly from 7 to 2. According to the GAI scale, the patient had an improvement in skin texture. Immediate response included mild-to-moderate erythema and only trace-mild edema in the treatment area. Pain during the treatment was minimal with a mean VAS pain score of 3/10. No other adverse events were reported. No post-treatment downtime was recorded. Conclusions: r-IPL may represent a valid therapeutic approach in noninvasive photorejuvenation.

Effects of topical piroxicam and sun filters in actinic keratosis evolution and field cancerization: a two-center, assessor-blinded, clinical, confocal microscopy and dermoscopy evaluation trial.

Background: Actinic keratosis (AK) is considered an "in situ" non-melanoma skin cancer induced by ultraviolet chronic exposure. Sunscreen and topical anti-inflammatory agents like diclofenac could improve the evolution of this kind of lesions. A topical product containing piroxicam 0.8% and sun filters (50 SPF) (ACTX) has been shown to be very effective in reducing AK lesions. So far, no data are available regarding the effects of this product on skin modifications evaluated by reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) and dermoscopy at the lesion sites and on the skin around the lesions (field cancerization). Study aim: To evaluate in a two-center, assessor-blinded, prospective trial the effect of ACTX on AK number, RCM and dermoscopy parameter evolution of a target lesion in subjects with multiple AK lesions. Subjects and methods: A total of 54 subjects (42 men and 12 women; mean age 65 years) with AK lesions grade I-III located on the scalp (n = 36) or face (n = 18) were enrolled after their written informed consent. ACTX was applied twice daily on the face and scalp for six consecutive months. AK lesion count was performed at baseline and after 3 and 6 months. Lesion count was assessed in a blind fashion evaluating digital color high definition images performed at each visit and coded in a blinded fashion. RCM evaluations were performed at the same time-points. A dermoscopy evaluation was performed at baseline and after 6 months. RCM and dermoscopy were assessed on a pre-specified target lesion. The RCM severity score was used evaluating 11 items, examining stratum corneum, stratum granulosum, stratum spinous and dermal layers (maximum score 11 points). The dermoscopy score evaluated erythema, scaling and follicular plugs (from 0 to 4 for each item) and pigmentation (from 0 to 5). Results: Forty-nine subjects (90%) concluded the trial. At baseline, the mean (SD) number of AK lesions was 9.6 (5.2). AK lesions significantly decreased to 5.9 and to 5.6 after 3 and 6 months of ACTX treatment (p = .001; intention to treat analysis), representing a -42% reduction. A reduction of AK lesion numbers >50% in comparison with baseline was observed in 51% of subjects at month 6. New AK lesions appeared in five subjects (9%). The RCM mean (SD) severity score at baseline was 6.4 (2.0). ACTX treatment was associated with a progressive and significant (p = .002) reduction to 4.9 after 3 months and to 4.8 (2.3) at month 6 (a -25% reduction). The dermoscopy score at baseline was 5.5 (2) and it was reduced significantly (p = .007) to 4.5 (2) at the end of the study. The product was in general very well tolerated. Conclusion: A 6 month application of ACTX in subjects with AK lesions was associated with an improvement in AK lesion count and with a reduction in the RCM/dermoscopy severity scores of the target lesion. Trial registration number: ISRCTN22070974.

Investigational drugs currently in phase II clinical trials for actinic keratosis.

INTRODUCTION: Actinic keratoses (AKs) are limited areas of irregular epidermal growth on a background of excessive solar exposure. The entire sun-damaged skin is considered a field of cancerization with multiple visible and subclinical lesions. AK management requires field-directed therapies to block lesion relapse and prevent squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). AREAS COVERED: In this review, we focused on phase II clinical trials for AKs, involving well-known agents and newer molecules such as proapoptotic drugs (VDA-1102, SR-T100, oleogel-S10, ICVT, eflornithine), immunomodulants (isotretinoin, tretinoin) and chemopreventive agents (nicotinamide, perillyl alcohol, liposomal T4N5). We used the website 'ClinicalTrials.Gov' as main reference. We selected and discussed completed and ongoing trials and analysed chemical structure and mechanism of action of the investigated molecules. EXPERT OPINION: AK therapy should be tailored on the patient's profile considering first of all the age and site of the AKs, which are relevant parameters for local immune response. The new molecules could be combined to obtain a synergic effect blocking the different steps of skin tumorigenesis. Phase II trials highlight a new therapeutic opportunity to block selectively cell proliferation regulators and work both on the field of cancerization and on the AKs currently present.

Clinical evidence on the efficacy and tolerability of a topical medical device containing benzoylperoxide 4%, retinol 0.5%, mandelic acid 1% and lactobionic acid 1% in the treatment of mild facial acne: an open label pilot study.

Background: Acne is a debilitating disorder that requires proper treatment depending on the clinical manifestations and pathogenetic factors, among which hyper-keratinization, seborrhea and bacterial proliferation. Combining active ingredients targeting the different mediators of acne pathogenesis may yield optimal outcomes. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical effectiveness, safety and tolerability of a new topical medical device in cream containing benzoylperoxide 4%, pure retinol 0.05%, palmitate retinol 0.5%, mandelic acid 1% and glycyrrhetic acid on patients with mild acne. Patients and methods: Twenty consecutive patients of both sexes with mild acne were included in the study. The topical treatment was self-applied twice a day for 12 weeks. Evaluations included: Global Acne Grading System (GAGS); inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions count; reflectance confocal microscopy; seborrhea and hydration degree; photographic documentation; a questionnaire to assess tolerability. Results: The GAGS score showed a 39% reduction from T0 to T1 and 69.20% from T0 to T2. The count of comedonic lesions showed a 44% reduction from T0 to T1 and 65% from T0 to T2. The count of papular lesions diminished by 49.4% from T0 to T1 and by 62% from T0 to T2. The count of pustular lesions decreased by 43% from T0 to T1 and by 80% from T0 to T2. Improvement of hydration and a decrease of seborrhea degree were even observed. These clinical results were confirmed by reflectance confocal microscopy exam. Conclusion: The topical medical device has shown to be clinically effective and well tolerated for the treatment of mild acne. Side effects were mild, transient and well tolerated. The results of our study demonstrated a high tolerability of this new combination of benzoylperoxide 4% and retinol. Furthermore, our results suggested that the studied compound could be considered as a "maintenance treatment" after specific pharmacological treatment, even in more severe types of acne.

The efficacy and tolerability of 5-aminolevulinic acid 5% thermosetting gel photodynamic therapy (PDT) in the treatment of mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris. A two-center, prospective assessor-blinded, proof-of-concept study.

BACKGROUND: Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory skin disease, commonly treated with topical or systemic drugs, according to the severity of the condition. Retinoids and antibiotic compounds are considered cornerstone approaches in this condition. However, low adherence to the therapy and the issue of bacterial resistance undermine the efficacy in the long term. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) with 20% aminolevulinic acid (ALA) has shown to be effective in the treatment of inflammatory acne. Skin tolerability, however, could be a limiting factor for a widespread use of this approach. A new formulation of 5% ALA in thermosetting gel has been recently available. This formulation allows a more convenient application procedure without occlusion and better and more efficient release of the active compound in comparison with traditional ALA formulations like creams or ointments. STUDY AIM: To evaluate in a two-center, assessor-blinded, prospective, proof-of-concept study, the efficacy, and tolerability of red-light (630 nm) PDT with a new 5-ALA "low-dose" topical gel formulation (5%) in the treatment of inflammatory mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris (AV). SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A total of 35 subjects with moderate AV of the face (mean age: 24 ± 8 years, 13 men and 22 women) were enrolled, after their written informed consent. The primary outcome was the evolution of GAG (Global Acne Grade System) score at baseline and after an average of three, 630-nm, 15-minute, PDT sessions, performed every 2 weeks. GAG score was also calculated in a follow-up visit 6 months after the last PDT session. Skin tolerability was assessed during PDT sessions with a patient-reported discomfort level evaluation score from 0 (no discomfort at all) to 3 (severe discomfort). RESULTS: At baseline, the GAG score was 21 ± 6. After the last PDT session, the GAG score evaluated in a blinded fashion (digital photographs) was significantly reduced to 6.5 ± 5.7, representing a 70% reduction (P = .0001, Wilcoxon test; mean difference 14.9; 95% CI of the difference: 12.1-17.6). At the follow-up visit, the GAG score was 6.7 ± 6.8. The 5% ALA thermosetting gel Red-light PDT was in general very well tolerated with a discomfort mean level score of 0.5 ± 1. CONCLUSION: This proof-of-concept study supports the efficacy of 5% ALA thermosetting gel red-light PDT in inflammatory acne of the face with a relevant clinical improvement of inflammatory lesions with a very good tolerability profile. Clinical improvement was maintained in the medium term (Trial Registration Number: ISRCTN66066651).

Effects of topical 0.8% piroxicam and 50+ sunscreen filters on actinic keratosis in hypertensive patients treated with or without photosensitizing diuretic drugs: an observational cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Photosensitizing diuretics use (especially thiazide compounds) is associated with a significantly higher risk of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Actinic keratosis (AK) is a precursor of SCC. STUDY AIM: To evaluate in a prospective cohort study the efficacy of topical piroxicam 0.8% and sunscreen 50+ (ACTX) in the treatment of AK in hypertensive subjects with or without TD treatment. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A total of 119 hypertensive subjects with multiple AK (39 under chronic TD treatment; and 80 treated with other non-TD, non-photosensitizing antihypertensive drugs) were enrolled after their informed consent in a 6-month observational cohort study. All the subjects were treated with ACTX twice daily. The primary endpoint was the evolution of AK lesions at baseline, after 3 and 6 months. The secondary endpoint was the clearance of AK target lesions and field of cancerization by dermoscopic evaluation using a score evaluating erythema, scaling, pigmentation, and follicular plugs (ESPFP score; ranging from 0 to 20). An investigator, unaware of the type of antihypertensive treatments (TD or non-TD), performed all the clinical and dermoscopy evaluations. RESULTS: At baseline, AK mean (SD) lesion number in TD group was 14.1(4) and 14.6(4) in the non-TD group. ESPFP mean (SD) score at baseline was 5.8(1.2) in both groups. A significant reduction of AK lesions in comparison with baseline was observed in both groups. A statistically significant greater reduction was observed in TD in comparison with the non-TD group (-54% vs -32%). ESPFP score was reduced in a higher proportion in the TD group in comparison with the non-TD group (-60% vs -37%, respectively). ACTX treatment was very well tolerated. CONCLUSION: In hypertensive subjects with multiple AK, the topical use of ACTX is associated with a significant reduction of lesions count with an improvement in the field cancerization. The clinical efficacy is more pronounced in subjects under thiazide diuretics treatment.