Actinic Keratosis

Actinic keratoses (AKs) are dry, scaly patches that form on sun exposed areas of the skin, including the scalp, face, forearms, and back of the hands. A single lesion is called an “actinic keratosis” or “solar keratosis.”

Most people with one actinic keratosis (AK) lesion will develop others. Actinic keratoses can appear in groups and many may be undetected. They may occasionally itch or become tender, especially after sun exposure. Actinic keratoses are usually scaly, feel like sandpaper to the touch, and range in color from skin-toned to reddish-brown. Actinic keratoses may be as small as the head of a pin or as large as a quarter (or bigger, if left untreated).

When actinic keratoses occur on the lip, they are referred to as actinic cheilitis. This type of AK appears as cracking, dried lips, often around the border of the lip.

Actinic Keratoses And Skin Cancer

Actinic keratoses are considered PRECANCEROUS by many physicians and have the potential to become a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). In fact, 40-60% of squamous cell skin cancers begin as untreated AKs. Therefore, your doctor will be diligent in diagnosing, treating, and monitoring actinic keratoses. Also, since actinic keratoses result from chronic sun exposure, those with AKs are at risk for developing other types of skin cancer, such as basal cell carcinoma or melanoma.

Fortunately, actinic keratoses are treatable when detected in the early stages. People at risk for actinic keratoses and skin cancer can reduce that risk by performing frequent skin self-exams and seeing their doctor for regular screenings.

Risk Factors For Developing Actinic Keratoses (AKs)

Actinic keratoses usually develop in people with light-colored skin and hair (blond or red hair), have freckles and have years of excessive sun exposure. Actinic keratoses are most common in men and women over 40 years old. However, even younger people (including those with dark skin) can develop actinic keratoses if they live in very sunny climates. People with weakened immune systems due to underlying illness or the use of immunosuppressive medications, such as chemotherapy, are much more likely to develop AKs.

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