Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

Which of the following is a treatment option for actinic keratoses?

1. Topical corticosteroids

2. Oral antibiotics

3. Fluorouracil cream

4. Moisturizing lotion

The correct answer is: Fluorouracil cream

Fluorouracil cream is an effective treatment option for actinic keratoses, which are pre-cancerous skin growths caused by sun damage. The active ingredient, fluorouracil, works by inhibiting the synthesis of DNA and RNA in rapidly dividing cells, leading to their destruction. This is especially useful for targeting the abnormal keratinocytes found in actinic keratosis lesions. The application of fluorouracil cream typically results in local inflammation and erosion of the treated area, which allows for the shedding of the damaged cells and encourages the growth of healthy skin. Other options provided are less suitable for treating actinic keratoses. Topical corticosteroids may help reduce inflammation but do not specifically target the keratinocytes. Oral antibiotics are primarily used for bacterial infections and have no role in treating actinic keratoses. Moisturizing lotions can improve the skin's hydration and appearance but do not have any therapeutic effect on the lesions themselves.