Actinic keratosis (AK) is a common skin condition characterized by rough, scaly patches or lesions on the skin.
These patches often develop in areas frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears, neck, scalp, shoulders, and arms.
They can vary in colour, ranging from skin-coloured to reddish-brown, and can be as small as a pinhead or as large as a coin.
Causes: AK is primarily caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or tanning beds. UV exposure can lead to the abnormal growth of skin cells, forming these rough patches.
Diagnosis: A healthcare professional typically diagnoses AK through a visual skin examination.
In some cases, a skin biopsy might be performed to confirm the diagnosis, especially if there’s uncertainty about the lesion’s nature or if it shows signs of potential progression to skin cancer (squamous cell carcinoma). See Signs
Treatment Options: Several treatment options are available for actinic keratosis, depending on the number of lesions, location, and severity. Some common treatments include:
- Topical Medications: Prescription creams or gels containing ingredients like fluorouracil, imiquimod, ingenol mebutate, or diclofenac can be applied directly to the affected area to eliminate the lesions. We like These
- Cryotherapy involves freezing the lesions with liquid nitrogen, causing them to blister and eventually fall off. Completed if a diagnosis is provided
- Photodynamic Therapy (PDT): A special light and a photosensitizing agent destroy AK cells.
- Surgical Removal: In some cases, mainly if lesions are large or have progressed to skin cancer, surgical procedures like excision might be necessary.
Prevention: Preventing AK involves protecting your skin from excessive sun exposure. This includes wearing sunscreen with SPF, seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding tanning beds. I am sure we all attended Sunbeds when we were much younger
Heres is a great Link on patient pathways and education
https://www.pcds.org.uk/files/general/AK-Pathway-2022-Update-web-1.pdf
You can access it directly through your web browser to obtain detailed information on this skin condition, including updates, pathways for diagnosis, and potentially more in-depth information on treatments and management strategies.
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