What Is Actinic Keratosis?
Actinic keratosis (AK) is characterized by rough, scaly patches on the skin that form after years of sun exposure. It most often appears on the lips, face, scalp, ears, shoulders, and other areas frequently exposed. Typically, the areas of skin affected will have more than one lesion, so the plural of this condition is known as actinic keratoses. These lesions develop slowly over time and may disappear and reappear, and be itchy, uncomfortable, and become inflamed. During a thorough skin assessment, our board-certified dermatologists at Snyder Dermatology will analyze the lesion, sometimes utilizing dermoscopy. Even though this skin condition is considered precancerous, it can be a cause for concern if not treated and could develop into a skin cancer. Removal of the lesion will most likely be recommended and discussed during the examination.
What Causes Actinic Keratosis?
Chronic sun exposure is the main cause of actinic keratosis, and it is more prevalent in older individuals from years of sun damage. While only a small percentage of AKs turn into skin cancer, it’s important to understand what this skin condition looks like and how to treat it. In most cases, this skin condition shows up as lesions that look red and scaly, as well as bumps and tan crusts that show up in multiple clusters that do not heal. During its beginning stages, the condition may only feel like a rough patch on the skin. Sometimes, this area will itch and become irritated. Over time, especially if it is exposed to more sun, the patchy area will turn red, scaly, bumpy, and inflamed and continue to grow. The more keratoses that exist, the chances of developing skin cancer increases. So, any of these warning signs should be checked by a board-certified dermatologist so that treatment can be provided, and future prevention discussed.
Symptoms of Actinic Keratosis
Actinic keratosis can vary in appearance. Common symptoms include:
-
- Small, rough, dry, or scaly patch of skin
-
- Flat or slightly raised patch or bump on the top layer of skin
-
- A hard, wartlike surface
-
- Color variations on the skin, including pink, red, or brown
-
- Itching, burning, bleeding, or crusting of the patch
-
- New patches or bumps on the head, neck, hands, and forearms where they are exposed to the sun.
CONTACT US
Have questions or want to schedule an appointment? Contact us today to speak with a member of the Snyder Dermatology team. We’re here to address your concerns with compassionate and effective care.
CONTACT
Everyone here was so helpful and kind. I haven’t had many Dermatologists who took my case seriously and they were so professional and thorough. I would definitely recommend this office to anyone!
-Brian C.
“Dr. Rene Snyder is saving me from skin cancer. Over the years she has found numerous precancer spots on me, each time treating them with great care and minimal discomfort. And she offers a wide range of cosmetic treatments so I can age gracefully. I’m a lifelong fan.”
-Kim S.
Dr. Parker has been my dermatologist for years, and she is terrific. She saw my 14-year-old for the first time yesterday yesterday, and was very thorough, knowledgeable, and kind. She guided her through a skin care routine, and gave her lots of tips about keeping her skin fresh. We feel so lucky to know Dr. Parker.
-Sarah K.
Board-Certified Dermatologists
MEET OUR DOCTORS
Snyder Dermatology is the premier practice for medical and cosmetic dermatology in Austin, TX. Centrally located, our dynamic team of board certified dermatologists focus on providing patients with the most advanced medical care and treatment options. Our practice is distinguished by our compassion, our desire to fully understand our patients’ needs, and our commitment to being good stewards in the communities where we live and work.
How to Treat Actinic Keratosis
The most important part of treatment is early detection and early intervention. Treatment options can vary depending on factors such as the patient’s age and health, skin tone, severity of condition, growth characteristics of the lesion(s), location, etc. Some common treatment options include:
Cryosurgery
Cryosurgery is often referred to as freezing the skin concern. This method uses liquid nitrogen to destroy lesions (such as actinic keratosis). The procedure in our office uses liquid nitrogen via a spray to remove the growth. Most patients are able to leave the office shortly after the procedure.
Electrodesiccation & Curettage
This treatment method effectively removes the lesion by scraping it down to the unaffected layer of skin. The procedure eliminates the lesion, underlying tissue, and/or pre-cancerous cells that may exist. This treatment causes minor scarring, but it remains a proven and effective substitute for surgery and is used in cases where the growth only affects the top layers of the skin. This is commonly used for hypertrophic (thick) actinic keratosis.
Medications
When actinic keratoses are widespread, prescription topical creams, gels, or solutions may help improve the area and reduce symptoms. This is also called field therapy. These medications can be especially helpful when combined with other therapies, as they treat both visible lesions and those not yet seen by the naked eye. A common medication used for treatment is 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), an FDA-approved topical chemotherapy. This medication is gently rubbed onto the affected area and lesions twice daily for several weeks.
Chemical peels
Our dermatology office offers numerous chemical peel variations that can help remove the unhealthy surface layer and superficial lesions. The chemical agent most commonly used is trichloroacetic acid (TCA). This is applied to the skin, causing the top layers to peel and slough off. New skin regenerates and replaces the damaged tissue.
Schedule a Consultation
If you have lesions that you believe may be related to sun exposure and could possibly be actinic keratosis, we recommend calling our Austin, TX dermatology practice to schedule your consultation. Almost all AKs can be eliminated if caught and treated early. We will provide a thorough analysis of your skin and provide the best possible recommendation for a healthy, long-term outcome.