What is Actinic Keratosis?
What is Actinic Keratosis?
Actinic keratosis, also known as solar is a common skin condition caused by prolonged exposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays or via indoor tanning beds. The UV rays cause the skin to produce an excess of keratin, a tough protein that forms the outer layer of the skin. This buildup of keratin leads to the formation of the rough, scaly patches, commonly found on areas that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears, scalp, arms, and hands.
Causes and Risk Factors of Actinic Keratosis
The primary cause is long-term exposure to the sun’s UV rays. However, there are several other factors that can increase the risk of developing this condition. Individuals with fair skin, red or blond hair, or light-colored eyes are more susceptible as they have less melanin, the pigment that provides a form of protection against UV radiation.
Other risk factors include:
- A history of frequent sunburns
- Living in sunny climates
- Spending a lot of time outdoors without sun protection
- Using tanning beds
- People with weakened immune systems
Signs and Symptoms of Actinic Keratosis
Typically appears as small, rough, scaly patches on the skin. These patches may be pink, red, or brown in color and can feel rough ufabet https://ufabet999.app and crusty to the touch. They may also be accompanied by burning or stinging sensations.
When actinic keratosis occurs on the lips, it most often looks like dried or chapped lips that do not heal. It can also look like scaly, white patches. In rare situations, may actually look like a small animal horn. These lesions require immediate intervention from a medical professional as they can indicate potential squamous cell carcinoma.
It is important to note that actinic keratosis can vary in appearance and may resemble other skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or even skin cancer. Therefore, it is crucial to consult a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis.
How is Actinic Keratosis Diagnose?
A dermatologist can usually diagnose by examining the affected areas of the skin. In some cases, a skin biopsy may performe to confirm the diagnosis and rule out any other underlying conditions.
During a skin biopsy, a small sample of the affect skin is remove and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The results of the biopsy can help determine the severity of the condition and guide the appropriate treatment plan.
Actinic Keratosis Treatments
There are several treatment options available depending on the severity of the condition, how many there are, where they are located, and whether or not you have had skin cancer in the past. Common treatment methods include:
