What Is Actinic Keratosis?

Too much exposure to the sun’s UV rays can produce a form of skin growth that is termed “precancerous,” meaning it has the potential to develop into a cancerous cell if not treated promptly. Actinic keratosis is characterized by a dry, scaly, rough-textured area of skin.

They might be the same color as the surrounding skin or vary in hue, and they usually have a rough, sandpaper-like texture. They can also grow up and out, generating a “cutaneous horn” in some cases. This most commonly affects men’s ears, although it can also affect other regions of the body.

Causes and Symptoms of Actinic Keratosis

The cause of actinic keratoses on the skin can be caused by a number of things. The majority of persons who have this ailment have lived in a bright climate for many years. Fair complexion, prolonged time spent outdoors, various symptoms of sun-damaged skin, and immune system disorders are also risk factors.

Scaly areas on the skin are known as actinic keratoses. They are most commonly present on the face, head, ears, and hands, which are exposed to a lot of light. Keratoses, which can vary in color and size, are one of the symptoms. Actinic keratoses are scaly, flat areas on the skin that can be white, yellow, flesh-colored, or red in appearance. Although some keratoses are painful to the touch, others are asymptomatic.

Keratoses resulting from actinic keratosis are susceptible to squamous cell cancer. Actinic keratosis patients may also be more susceptible to other types of skin cancer. The most common treatment for actinic keratoses is removal, which can be accomplished through cryotherapy or excision. Topical therapies to repair the skin may be indicated once the tattoo has been removed.

If you experience actinic keratosis symptoms, you should contact a dermatologist right away. Actinic keratoses can be treated medically or cosmetically at Moksha Dermatology. Make an appointment with one of our professional dermatologists at Moksha Dermatology in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Am I at Risk for Actinic Keratosis?

Actinic keratosis is more common in people who have a very pale complexion. Adults over the age of 40, with fair skin and light-colored hair, as well as those who reside in hot climates or use tanning beds frequently, are at the greatest risk.

Most cases of actinic keratosis can be diagnosed simply by looking at and feeling your skin by a member of our highly skilled dermatological staff at Moksha Dermatology in Cincinnati, Ohio. A biopsy may be required in some instances.

The most common sites for actinic keratosis are:

• Forehead
• Neck
• Chest
• Ears
• Scalp
• Arms
• Hands
• Lower Legs