Actinic keratosis (plural: keratoses) is a condition where skin is severely damaged by ultraviolet light. This is usually the result of overexposure to the sun but can also be caused by tanning beds or sun lamps. Actinic keratoses are a form of precancerous skin lesions and a warning of possible skin cancer. If left untreated, it can develop into cancers known as squamous cell carcinomas.
Signs & Symptoms of Actinic Keratosis
An actinic keratosis is a rough, discolored patch of scaly skin. It‘s usually found on a part of the body that‘s often exposed to the sun, such as the face, arms, ears, scalp, or neck. Keratoses are usually not painful but may itch or burn, or feel painful when rubbed.
It‘s possible for a keratosis to come and go. It may flake off and disappear, but that does not mean the damage has been healed. The keratosis may form again and the risk of cancer is still present.
Who is Susceptible to Having This Condition?
Actinic keratoses usually only form on people, after long exposure to ultraviolet radiation. They are rare in people under 40. People with light skin, hair, and eyes, and who freckle or burn easily, are more likely to form a keratosis.
Roofers, farmers, and other workers who spend a lot of time in the sun are at a higher risk. Workers who are regularly in contact with hydrocarbons, such as coal or tar, are also more likely to develop a keratosis. Having a compromised immune system is also a risk factor for this condition.
Various Treatment Options
Depending on the case, the dermatologist may be able to treat the keratosis in the office, or may prescribe medicine to treat it. Some prefer a combined approach.
The most frequent treatment in the office is cryotherapy, where the keratosis is frozen and peeled off. Chemical or laser peels or light therapy can also be used, or the keratosis can be scraped off with a curette and the site cauterized.
Home treatment is by topical creams and gels, most of which work in one of two ways: some irritate the skin to provoke healing, while others boost the body‘s immune system to get rid of the diseased cells in the keratosis.
A patient should never try to remove a keratosis by him- or herself. There is a risk of scarring and infection, and no guarantee that the problem will be solved.