Understanding Actinic Keratosis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Actinic Keratosis (AK) is a common skin condition caused by prolonged sun exposure. Also known as solar keratosis, it manifests as rough, scaly patches on the skin, usually on areas frequently exposed to the sun. While AK is not cancerous, it is considered a precancerous condition that may develop into squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated. 

Causes and Risk Factors:

The primary cause of Actinic Keratosis is excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, typically from sunlight. The cumulative effect of years of sun exposure leads to the development of AK. Individuals with fair skin, light-colored hair, and blue or green eyes are at a higher risk of developing this condition. Other risk factors include a history of sunburns, living in sunny regions, and a weakened immune system.

Symptoms:

Actinic Keratosis commonly appears as rough, scaly, or crusty patches on sun-exposed areas such as the face, scalp, ears, lips, neck, forearms, and backs of the hands. These patches may be red, pink, brown, or flesh-colored, ranging from a small spot to several centimeters in diameter. AK lesions are often itchy or tender and may occasionally bleed or form a hard, wart-like surface.

Prevention:

Preventing Actinic Keratosis is essential in reducing the risk of developing skin cancer. Protecting the skin from the sun is recommended by wearing protective clothing, including wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses, using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF), and spending some time in the shade during peak sunlight hours.

To see examples of Actinic Keratosis, click here.

If you notice any suspicious or changing skin lesions, download CheckMySpot on the app store, complete your medical profile, upload a photo, and get a report within 48 hours.