Actinic keratosis Symptoms

Signs and symptoms
... The signs and symptoms of actinic keratosis include: Flat to slightly raised, scaly patches on the top layer of your skin Lesions on your skin ranging in color from pink to red to brown, or flesh-colo...

Risk factors
... You''re most likely to develop actinic keratosis if you have one or more of these risk factors: A history of frequent or intense sun exposure or sunburn Pale skin Blond or red hair, especially when co...

Actinic keratosis Prevention

Prevention
... Prevention of actinic keratosis is important. The condition can be precancerous or an early form of skin cancer. Sun safety is necessary to help prevent development and recurrence of patches and lesio...

Actinic keratosis Treatment

Complications
... Actinic keratosis may be the first sign of skin cancer. If treated early, almost all actinic keratoses can be eliminated before developing into skin cancer. However, if left untreated these spots or p...

Treatment
... It''s impossible to tell exactly which patches or lesions will develop into skin cancer. Your doctor or a dermatologist can discuss with you which treatment is appropriate for you. Treatment options m...

Actinic keratosis Other

Overview
... Actinic keratosis is a skin condition characterized by rough, scaly patches on the skin of your face, lips, ears, back of your hands, forearms, scalp and neck. It''s caused by frequent or intense expo...