What is actinic keratosis?
Actinic keratosis is a precancerous skin condition. These crusty, scaly growths have the potential to turn into squamous cell carcinoma if not treated.
Sun exposure, especially to ultraviolet (UV) rays, is the main reason you develop these lesions. Tanning beds, which use UV rays, can also contribute to the development of these lesions. You’re at the greatest risk of developing actinic keratosis if you have a fair complexion and blonde or red hair with light-colored eyes.
Is actinic keratosis a type of skin cancer?
Actinic keratosis is not skin cancer. When left untreated, these lesions are likely to turn into squamous cell carcinoma, the second most common form of skin cancer.
Where does actinic keratosis develop?
Actinic keratosis most often develops on the parts of your body most regularly exposed to the sun, including your:
- Face
- Neck
- Ears
- Shoulders
- Baldhead
- Back of hands
- Forearms
If your legs are often exposed to the sun, you could notice actinic keratosis lesions on your shins and thighs.
How do I know I have actinic keratosis?
You can’t be sure a lesion is actinic keratosis until you get a diagnosis from a doctor at LUX Dermatology. However, you should suspect that a lesion is possibly actinic keratosis if it resembles a wart. These lesions also are rough and elevated.
The lesions are sometimes reddish but can also be dark tan, flesh-toned, white, or pink. The lesion and surrounding skin can be tender or itchy.
How is actinic keratosis treated?
Prompt treatment of actinic keratosis helps prevent squamous cell skin cancer from developing.
The doctors determine the best treatment for your lesion depending on where it is.
Cryosurgery
Cryosurgery involves freezing the lesion with liquid nitrogen, causing it to fall off.
Curettage and desiccation
This refers to cutting, scraping, or shaving off the lesion to remove all precancerous cells.
Laser or light therapy
Powerful light energy dissolves the precancerous cells in actinic keratosis. Phototherapy that involves applying a topical treatment activated by a specialized light can also destroy actinic keratosis lesions while preventing damage to the surrounding healthy skin.
Schedule your appointment to have suspected actinic keratosis evaluated and treated. Call LUX Dermatology today or use the online tool to make an appointment right away.
