What is Actinic Keratosis? Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Actinic keratosis (AK), also known as solar keratosis, is a precancerous skin condition characterized by rough, scaly patches on the skin. It develops due to long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation and can in some cases progress to squamous cell carcinoma (skin cancer).

What is actinic keratosis?

Actinic keratosis occurs when skin cells called keratinocytes are damaged by cumulative UV exposure over time. This damage alters the cells' DNA, causing them to grow abnormally. While not cancerous itself, AK is considered a precursor to squamous cell carcinoma.

What does actinic keratosis look like?

AK typically appears as small, rough, or scaly patches on the skin that may be pink, red, or brown. They can feel like sandpaper to the touch and may be easier to feel than see. Common locations include areas frequently exposed to the sun: face, ears, lips, bald scalp, neck, forearms, and backs of hands.

Who gets actinic keratosis?

AK is most common in fair-skinned individuals over 40, but it can affect anyone with a history of significant sun exposure. People with weakened immune systems, those who work outdoors, and individuals who have used tanning beds are at higher risk.

Treatment of actinic keratosis

Treatment options include:

• Cryotherapy (freezing) The most common treatment, using liquid nitrogen to destroy the abnormal cells.
• Topical medications: Creams such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) or imiquimod applied directly to the lesions.
• Photodynamic therapy: A light-activating cream combined with specific light to destroy abnormal cells.
• Surgical removal: In some cases, the doctor may scrape or cut the lesion away.

Prevention

Prevention is key: Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily, wear protective clothing, avoid peak sun hours, and never use tanning beds.