Benign Skin Lesions

Actinic Keratoses

What are actinic keratoses?
Actinic keratoses (AKs) are rough, dry, scaly patches that form on the skin due to overexposure to UV light, such as sunlight. They usually range in color from skin-toned to reddish brown and may be as small as a pinhead or as large as a quarter. AKs are considered to be the earliest form of skin cancer and may progress to squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer that can be fatal.

What are the causes of actinic keratoses?
Years of sun exposure cause AKs to develop. Most of our skin is made up of cells called keratinocytes, inside which AKs develop. Years of sun exposure cause the keratinocytes to change in size, shape, and the way they are organized.

Who gets actinic keratoses?
If you have fair skin, a history of too much sun exposure, or a weak immune system, you are at risk of developing AKs. Areas of the body that are particularly exposed to the sun over long periods of time, including the face, ears, lips, scalp, neck, forearms, and backs of the hands are typically where AKs develop. These patches take years to form, so people don't usually find them until after age 40.

To prevent AKs and skin cancer, you should do the following:

• Avoid deliberate tanning
• Get Vitamin D through a healthy diet and supplements, not through the sun.
• Apply sunscreen EVERYWHERE when exposed to the sun.
• Cover up when in the sun
• Use extra caution near water, snow, and sand.

If caught early, AKs can usually be cured, so it's essential that you get regular skin examinations. You should do self-examinations as well as visit your doctor. If you see any sign of a skin patch or lesion, visit your doctor immediately. If caught in its early stages, the AK can be treated and cured. Do not try and pick off the patches yourself because they will simply grow back. Always go to your doctor for treatment.