title: A new, objective, quantitative scale for measuring local skin responses following topical actinic keratosis therapy with ingenol mebutate.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Local skin responses (LSRs) are the most common adverse effects of topical actinic keratosis (AK) therapy. There is currently no method available that allows objective characterization of LSRs. Here, the authors describe a new scale developed to quantitatively and objectively assess the six most common LSRs resulting from topical AK therapy with ingenol mebutate.
  
  
  METHODS
  The LSR grading scale was developed using a 0-4 numerical rating, with clinical descriptors and representative photographic images for each rating. Good inter-observer grading concordance was demonstrated in peer review during development of the tool. Data on the use of the scale are described from four phase III double-blind studies of ingenol mebutate (n = 1,005).
  
  
  RESULTS
  LSRs peaked on days 4 (face/scalp) or 8 (trunk/extremities), with mean maximum composite LSR scores of 9.1 and 6.8, respectively, and a rapid return toward baseline by day 15 in most cases. Mean composite LSR score at day 57 was generally lower than at baseline.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The LSR grading scale is an objective tool allowing practicing dermatologists to characterize and compare LSRs to existing and, potentially, future AK therapies.
authors: Southderm Pty Ltd, 47 Regent Street, Kogarah, NSW, 2217, Australia, skindoc@bigpond.net.au.
authors: Robert
authors: R
authors: Rosen
authors: Ellen
authors: E
authors: Marmur
authors: Lawrence
authors: L
authors: Anderson
authors: Peter
authors: P
authors: Welburn
authors: Janelle
authors: J
authors: Katsamas