Actinic keratoses (AKs) are dry, scaly, rough-textured patches or lesions that form on the outermost layer of the skin after years of exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, such as sunlight. These lesions typically range in color from skin-toned to reddish brown and in size from that of a pinhead to larger than a quarter. Occasionally, a lesion grows to resemble an animal horn and is called a “cutaneous horn.”

It is important that anyone with AKs be under a dermatologist’s care. AKs are considered the earliest stage in the development of skin cancer and have the potential to progress to squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer that can be fatal. Anyone who develops AKs has extensive sun-damaged skin. This makes one more susceptible to other forms of skin cancer, including melanoma. Melanoma is considered the most lethal form of skin cancer because it can rapidly spread to the lymph system and internal organs.

Causes
Years of sun exposure cause AKs to develop. All AKs, including actinic cheilitis, develop in the skin cells called the “keratinocytes,” which are the tough-walled cells that make up 90% of the epidermis, the outermost layer of skin, and give the skin its texture. Years of sun exposure cause these cells to change in size, shape, and the way they are organized. Cellular damage can even extend to the dermis, the layer of skin beneath the epidermis.

When caught in the early stages, AKs and all types of skin cancer are treatable and in most cases, curable. The key to early detection is frequent skin examinations. Performing regular self-examinations and being screened by a dermatologist as needed can help detect AKs and skin cancer in the earliest and most treatable stages.

If you find a suspicious skin lesion, be sure to see a dermatologist for diagnosis — even if the lesion seems to appear and then disappear for weeks or months and reappear. Dermatologists receive extensive medical training in skin conditions and have the experience necessary to diagnose various skin lesions. An accurate diagnosis is the first step to successful treatment. Self-treating by picking off the lesions is not effective treatment; the lesions grow back. Since AKs have the potential to progress to squamous cell carcinoma, a sometimes fatal type of skin cancer, AKs should be treated.

ACTINIC KERATOSES PHOTOS: