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Which topical agent is most likely to be successful in treating skin lesions with telangiectasia caused by sun exposure?

  1. Salicylic Acid solution topically

  2. Prednisone (Deltasone) orally

  3. Fluorouracil (5-FU) cream

  4. Isotretinoin (Accutane) orally

The correct answer is: Fluorouracil (5-FU) cream

Fluorouracil (5-FU) cream is well-regarded for its effectiveness in treating actinic keratosis and other keratotic skin lesions, particularly those associated with sun exposure. This topical agent works by inhibiting the growth of rapidly dividing cells, which makes it particularly useful for managing precancerous lesions. The cream penetrates the skin and causes a localized inflammatory response, leading to the destruction of abnormal cells while sparing the surrounding healthy tissue. In cases of telangiectasia, which are small dilated blood vessels often linked to sun damage, the use of fluorouracil can help by reducing the thickness of the lesions and promoting the turnover of epithelial cells. This mechanism aligns with its role in treating various types of skin lesions resulting from excessive sun exposure. Other options, while useful in different contexts, are not as effective for the specific scenario of treating skin lesions with telangiectasia caused by sun exposure. Salicylic acid primarily functions as a keratolytic agent and is more appropriate for conditions like acne. Prednisone is a systemic corticosteroid that is not indicated for minor skin lesions like telangiectasia, as it does not directly address the underlying pathology. Isotretinoin,