What is actinic keratosis?
Actinic keratosis, also known as solar keratosis, is a rough, scaly patch on the skin that may be premalignant. These lesions are more common in fair-skinned individuals and are strongly associated with frequent exposure to the sun.
Symptoms of actinic keratosis
Actinic keratosis typically presents with the following symptoms:
Scaly patches: Rough, dry, or scaly patches on the skin, often less than 1 inch in diameter.
Color changes: The patches may be pink, red, or brown and can sometimes be itchy or cause a burning sensation.
Location: Commonly found on sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears, neck, scalp, chest, hands, and forearms.
Causes of actinic keratosis
The primary cause of actinic keratosis is prolonged and repeated exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. This exposure causes damage to the skin cells, leading to the development of these rough patches.
Below are the risk factors that contribute to the formation of actinic keratosis.
Fair skin: Individuals with fair skin, light hair, and light-colored eyes are at higher risk.
Sun exposure: People who spend a lot of time outdoors or have a history of frequent sunburns.
Age: Actinic keratosis is more common in older adults due to cumulative sun exposure over the years.
Weakened immune system: Those with weakened immune systems, such as organ transplant recipients, are at higher risk.
Treatment for actinic keratosis
Treatment options for actinic keratosis aim to remove the lesions and prevent progression to skin cancer.
Preventing actinic keratosis
Prevention strategies focus on reducing UV exposure and protecting the skin from further damage:
Sun protection: Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Avoid tanning beds: Tanning beds increase the risk of actinic keratosis and skin cancer.
- Regular skin checks: Perform regular self-examinations and see a dermatologist for routine skin checks, especially if you have a history of frequent sun exposure or sunburns.
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