Actinic Keratoses
What are Actinic Keratoses?
Actinic keratoses (AKs) are small, rough, scaly patches that develop on the skin. They are considered precancerous and often occur on areas frequently exposed to the sun, like the face, ears, scalp, neck, backs of hands, and forearms. If left untreated, actinic keratoses can develop into skin cancer.
Causes of Actinic Keratoses
Actinic keratoses are primarily caused by prolonged sun exposure and cumulative damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Fair-skinned individuals and those with a history of frequent sunburns are at a higher risk of developing these lesions.
Treatment Options for Actinic Keratoses
Effective treatment options for actinic keratoses include:
Cryotherapy: This procedure involves freezing the AKs with liquid nitrogen, causing them to peel off.
Topical Prescription Creams: Prescription creams containing ingredients like imiquimod or fluorouracil can help reduce actinic keratoses over a period of weeks.
Photodynamic Therapy: A photosensitising agent is applied to the affected area, followed by exposure to light, which targets and destroys sun-damaged skin cells.
Surgical Options: Dermatologists may recommend surgical procedures such as curette and cautery for the removal of stubborn or thickened lesions.