Mayo Clinic; 2020. Most people who have AKs (or think they may have an AK) see a dermatologist. This image displays a thin white scale typical of actinic keratosis. In some cases, a hard, wartlike surface. Find out how a board-certified dermatologist helped Natalie see clear skin before her wedding. Actinic keratosis is a fairly common skin condition. When you see a board-certified dermatologist about AKs, your dermatologist will: Ask questions about your health, medications, and symptoms. It most likely appears on areas of skin often exposed to the sun. Heres how long botox tends to last. Photodynamic therapy uses a topical solution and a laser to remove the precancerous lesions. Over time, the lesions can disappear, enlarge, remain the same, or develop into SCC. Actinic keratoses usually develop in areas thatve been damaged by years of sun exposure. IE 11 is not supported. Mayo Clinic. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Anyone can develop these lesions, but youre more likely to develop them if youve had a lot of unprotected sun exposure. From keratinocyte to cancer: The pathogenesis and modeling of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Evaluation of long-term clearance rates of interventions for actinic keratosis: A systematic review and network meta-analysis. The growths may be gray, pink, red, or the same color as your skin. Arsenical keratosis is a precancerous dermatosis seen in patients with chronic arsenic toxicity (CAT). To be effective, you need to apply the medication as often as your dermatologist recommends. Guorgis G, et al. Keep every appointment. 2. The sun constantly releases UV radiation, which, like most forms of radiation, isnt great for your skin. For 48 hours after treatment, youll need to avoid the outdoors during daylight. In front of a full-length mirror, inspect the front of your body making sure to look at the front of your neck, chest (including under breasts), legs, and genitals. Dermatology, pp.1676-1693. The UV light, even on a cloudy or snowy day, can cause a serious skin reaction. The following are some of the natural treatments you can try for actinic keratosis: 1. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. In most cases, people who develop actinic keratosis are in their 40s or older. The following are clinical images of squamous cell skin cancer, starting with early stages. Cryotherapy, also called cryosurgery, is a type of treatment in which the lesion is sprayed with a cryosurgery solution, such as liquid nitrogen. After cryosurgery, you may see crusting or a blister on your treated skin. Read on to know all about this disorder, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. If you find a spot or growth on your skin that you think could be an actinic keratosis (AK), its time for a thorough skin exam.