Beta-1,3-D-glucan gel in the treatment of solar keratoses.

beta-1,3-D-glucans are yeast-derived carbohydrate polymers which have been shown to be potent immunoresponse modulators which promote the regression of certain tumours. To date there is no published data concerning the efficacy of topical beta-1,3-D-glucan in the treatment of solar keratoses. This randomized double-blind prospective pilot study of 20 patients was performed to investigate the efficacy and skin tolerance of beta-1,3-D-glucan gel versus placebo in the treatment of solar keratoses. The results of this study showed no significant benefit in using beta-1,3-D-glucan gel over placebo in reducing counts of solar keratoses. No adverse effects were reported by any patient at any stage of the trial.