Actinic keratosis is a dysplastic epidermal lesion that is caused by chronic UV radiation exposure. They appear as rough, scaly patches or papules on sun-exposed skin. They are often the precursor to cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC).
- Signs and symptoms
- Small, crusty, or scaly lesions
- Pink, red, brown, or the same colour as the skin
- On sun-exposed areas
- Multiple lesions may be present
- Small, crusty, or scaly lesions
- Investigations
- Biopsy: Atypical keratinocytes confined to the lower third of the epidermis
- Treatment
- Avoid sunlight and apply sunscreen
- Fluorouracil cream (followed by topical hydrocortisone to reduce inflammation)
- Topical diclofenac (for mid-to-severe actinic keratoses)
- Topical imiquimod
- Cryotherapy
- Curettage and cautery
