Actinic Keratosis: How To Identify And Treat One
Actinic keratosis can be identified by the bumps or patches that can be seen leveled and flattened on the skin with think, crusty, or scaly surface. It can also be called solar keratosis and senile keratosis. It is commonly known as sun spot or precancerous spot. This is commonly called as “AK” by doctors Its size varies from pinhead-like size to over one inch across. It can be seen as light or dark, or any of red, tan and pink.
Touching the actinic keratosis can confirm its development rather than merely seeing it. The crust or the scale that is formed by this condition is like a horn, rough, and dry. A resisting sharp pain can be sensed most of the time. If the person is highly exposed to the sun, he may sense itchiness. Many actinic keratoses have the tendency to exhibit in groups in body parts that are exposed to the sun always. These body parts include forearms, lips, neck, back of hands, ears, bald scalp, and face.
Since having this condition may be a manifestation of development of cancer, it is considered as a dangerous skin condition. Provided that the spots are detected immediately and undergo proper treatment, skin cancer is not life-threatening. If actinic keratoses are not attended medically, they have the tendency to grow larger and be infected as it invade the tissues that surround it.
Damage coming from the sun to the skin can be summed up over time. Ultraviolet rays can be acquired as they bounce off reflective surfaces. Fair-skinned people are responsive to this condition of the skin. Susceptible as well are those who have blonde or red hair, and gray, blue, or green eyes. This is so because they have lesser pigments that protect their skins that are repulsive to sunburn. However, the development of actinic keratosis can also occur to dark-skinned people who have utmost exposure to the sun without proper protection.
Actinic keratosis can be removed by means of different treatments. There is not always a need to get rid of all of the actinic keratoses. Cryosurgery is one treatment that is commonly used by skin experts. Liquid nitrogen is applied in order to freeze off lesions. Utilized here is an applicator with a cottop tip or a special spray device.
If there are many lesions, an effective treatment is through applying keratosis removal cream. Chemical peels and curettage are other ways that can be thought of for the treatment.
Generally, it is highly advised by many skin doctors to seek them first if you want to learn more regarding this condition.






