Almirall
Actinic keratosis

Actinic keratosis signs and symptoms

How does actinic keratosis affect the skin?

Chronic exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and other sources causes excessive multiplication of keratinocytes, the main cells of the epidermis (the outermost layer of the skin).

These keratinocytes also undergo alterations and become atypical, that is different from normal ones. The result is a localized skin lesion that is seen as a thick, rough and scaly patch, also known as actinic keratosis or solar keratosis.

Actinic keratoses are, in short, lesions appearing in sun-damaged skin. Most frequently, not only is the area where the lesion appears damaged, but the surrounding region is also damaged as well, exhibiting a yellowish colour, with spots or even small broken blood vessels. Other times, this area of surrounding skin looks normal, but when examined under a microscope or by molecular techniques, abnormalities are identified. This area is called field of cancerization.

How to spot actinic keratoses?

To recognize actinic keratoses, examine your skin regularly (for example, every two months), paying special attention to the areas most exposed to the sun―such as the face, bald scalp, forearms, the back of the hands and lower legs, where the lesions are usually found.

Visit your dermatologist any time you see something new, changing or unusual on your skin, make an appointment to get checked right away. An early diagnosis and an adequate treatment can increase the chances for a successful recovery.

What do actinic keratoses look like?

At first actinic keratoses can be hard to see with the naked eye, but they can be easily felt as small areas of rough, dry or flaky skin.

What colour is an actinic keratosis?

Actinic keratosis lesions come in many colours: yellowish, gray, pink, red, brown, white or can also be the same colour as healthy skin.

What shape is an actinic keratosis?

Actinic keratoses can vary in shape:

  • Rough skin area to the touch, but imperceptible to the naked eye (in initial stages).
  • Reddish, rough and scaly area, with grain appearance.
  • Raised and rough red, pink, gray or skin-coloured plaque.

Does an actinic keratosis hurt?

Although rare, actinic keratosis lesions can feel tender when touched or cause itching, pain, burning, stick to your clothing, or even bleed. It is important that you talk to your doctor if you notice any of these symptoms, as squamous cell carcinoma may present with the same symptoms. Actinic keratosis lesions can progress into this type of cancer and can be indistinguishable based on appearance alone. Detecting an actinic keratosis early gives you the opportunity to treat it and prevent skin cancer before it starts. When diagnosed promptly, almost all actinic keratoses can be successfully removed.

FAQs

References