Understanding Actinic Keratosis
Actinic keratosis is a skin growth caused by sun damage. These growths are not cancer, but they may develop into skin cancer (precancerous). Many people get these growths, especially as they age. This is because of cumulative sun exposure over years. Multiple growths are called actinic keratoses.
What causes actinic keratosis?
Sun damage causes actinic keratosis. These growths usually appear on skin that is most often exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears, or back of the hands. People who easily sunburn are likely to develop actinic keratoses. Actinic keratoses often appear later in life from cumulative, extensive sun exposure.
What are the symptoms of actinic keratosis?
Actinic keratosis growths may be described as:
They may appear singly or in clusters. They may start out as red patches, and the skin around them may be discolored.
Actinic keratoses usually are not painful. For some people they may make the skin feel tender.
How is actinic keratosis treated?
Because actinic keratoses may develop into skin cancer, a healthcare provider should look at them. Your healthcare provider may choose to remove one or more of these growths. It may be examined under a microscope. This is called a biopsy. You may also wish to have actinic keratoses removed if they bother you. They can be removed in several ways:
By using a medicine on the skin such as 5 fluorouracil or imiquimod
By removing them with a scalpel
By freezing them with liquid nitrogen
How can I prevent actinic keratoses?
Avoiding sun damage to your skin is the best way to prevent actinic keratoses. Here are some ways to protect your skin:
Use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher on exposed skin when you are outside.
Wear a hat to protect your face and scalp. Consider wearing clothing that covers your arms and legs.
Avoid the sun in the middle of the day, when sunlight is most direct.
Be aware of how long you have been out in the sun. Reapply sunscreen according to package directions.
Do not use tanning beds.
What are the complications of actinic keratosis?
Actinic keratoses are a sign of skin damage. They may become cancerous. It’s a good idea to ask your healthcare provider to check new skin growths. Report any skin problem that concerns you.
When should I call my healthcare provider?
Call your healthcare provider right away if any of these occur:
You have an actinic keratosis sore that does not respond to treatment
You have an actinic keratosis sore that does not heal within a few weeks, or heals and then comes back
You have a skin growth that is changing in size, shape, or color
You have a skin growth that looks different on one side from the other
You have a skin growth that is not the same color throughout