While an actinic keratosis is not a skin cancer, it is considered to be precancerous. If left untreated, it can develop into squamous cell carcinoma. Research has shown that people with actinic keratoses have an increased risk of developing other types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma and melanoma.
Are you noticing random lesions of your skin in the form of scattered, thick, scaly red patches? You may have Actinic Keratosis.
What is Actinic Keratosis?
Actinic keratoses typically develops from years of sun exposure and occur on the face, lips, ears, bald scalp, shoulders, neck and back of the hands and forearms. An actinic keratosis enlarges slowly and usually causes no signs or symptoms other than a patch or small spot on your skin. These patches take years to develop, usually first appearing in people over 40.
Symptoms of actinic keratoses include:
- Rough, dry or scaly patch of skin, usually less than 2.5 centimetres in diameter
- Flat to slightly raised patch or bump on the top layer of skin
- In some cases, a hard, wart-like surface
- Color as varied as pink, red or brown
- Itching or burning in the affected area
Treatments For Actinic Keratosis
Early treatment can eliminate almost all actinic keratoses before they become skin cancers. Depending on the nature of the growth and the patient’s age and health, various treatment options are available for actinic keratosis, including the following:
- Surgical Procedures
- Tropical Treatments
- Photodynamic Therapy
- Combination Therapy
Are You At Risk For Actinic Keratosis
Anyone can develop actinic keratoses. But you may be more likely to develop the condition if you:
- Are older than 40
- Live in a sunny place
- Have a history of frequent or intense sun exposure or sunburn
- Have red or blond hair, and blue or light-coloured eyes
- Tend to freckle or burn when exposed to sunlight
- Have a personal history of actinic keratosis or skin cancer
- Have a weak immune system as a result of chemotherapy, leukemia, AIDS or organ transplant medications
Contact Us
If you're experiencing any discomfort or are noticing some symptoms of Actinic Keratosis give your Kelowna Physicians a call of fill out our online contact form below.
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