Actinic Keratosis

Actinic Keratosis Causes

Actinic keratosis are rough scaly bumps that appear in sun exposed areas (scalp, face, chest, arms, hands and legs) that result from chronic sun exposure. Typically actinic keratosis appear red or pink and tend to feel tender or itch. Sun damage that causes actinic keratosis can accumulate from constant exposure while outside and even more so from the use of tanning beds.

Actinic Keratosis Treatment

Actinic keratosis are precancerous lesions. If left untreated for many years, a small percentage can evolve into skin cancer (specifically squamous cell carcinoma).

Precancerous Lesions Treatment

There are many effective treatments for removing actinic keratosis. Common treatments for actinic keratosis include liquid nitrogen cryotherapy, topical medications such as Efudex (Fluoroplex), Picato, and photodynamic therapy. These treatments are essential in preventing actinic keratosis from developing into a serious form of cancer such as squamous cell carcinoma.

Preventing Actinic Keratosis

Wearing sunscreen daily (SPF 30 or greater) and sun protective clothing will decrease your incidence of developing these precancerous lesions.