Actinic Keratosis

 Also known as a solar keratosis

 Caused by damage from exposure to Ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It develops from years of
exposure to the sun. It may also be caused by tanning beds and excessive exposure to x-
rays.
 Actinic Keratosis is formed by damaged cells confined in the top layer of the skin
(Epidermis).
 It enlarges slowly and usually causes no signs or symptoms other than a patch or small
spot on your skin. These patches take years to develop, usually first appearing in people
over 40.
 They are commonly found on sun exposed areas such as the face, lips, ears, back of your
hands, forearms, scalp or neck.
 In the beginning, Actinic Keratosis are frequently so small that they are recognized by
touch rather than by sight. They feel as if you are running your finger over a sandpaper.
 If left untreated, a small percentage of actinic keratosis lesions can eventually become
skin cancer. Most often, the second most common form of skin cancer (Squamous Cell
Carcinoma).

Symptoms:
 Rough, dry or scaly patch of skin
 Less than 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) in diameter
 Flat to slightly raised patch or bump on the top layer of skin
 Hard, wart-like surface
 Color: pink, red or brown
 Itching or burning in the affected area

Diagnosis:
 Skin biopsy, the doctor takes a small sample of your skin for analysis in a lab.

Medications or Treatment
Includes medication in the form of various creams and gels.
Some medications include:

 Fluorouracil Cream (Carac, Fluoroplex, Efudex)

 Imiquimod Cream (Aldara, Zyclara)
 Ingenol Mebutate Gel (Picato)
 Diclofenac Gel (Voltaren, Solaraze)

*These topical creams and gels are in class medications called antimetabolites. It works by
killing fast-growing cells such as abnormal cells in actinic keratosis.
 Photodynamic Therapy
-Involves application of a chemical to affected areas of skin. The doctor shines an
artificial light on the chemical, which in turn, kills the damaged cells and removes
the actinic keratosis.
 Freezing (Cryotherapy)
-Most common treatment for actinic keratosis
 -The use of extreme cold in surgery
-Removes the lesions by freezing the affected skin with LIQUID NITROGEN
-A doctor applies the liquid nitrogen to the affected skin. The extreme cold causes the
affected skin to blister and peel. As the skin heals, the lesions fall off, allowing new,
undamaged skin to appear.
 Scraping (Curettage)
-Involves a device called curette, to scrape off damage skin cells.

Risk Factors:
 Older than 40
 Live in a sunny climate
 Have a history of frequent or intense sun exposure or sunburn
 Have red or blond hair, and blue or light-colored eyes
 Tend to freckle or burn when exposed to sunlight
 Have a personal history of an actinic keratosis or skin cancer
 Have a weak immune system as a result of chemotherapy, leukemia, AIDS or organ
transplant medications

Complications:
 If treated early, almost all actinic keratosis can be removed before they turn into skin
cancer.
 If left untreated, these spots may progress to squamous cell carcinoma.

Prevention:
 Limit your time in the sun
 Use sunscreen
 Cover up
 Avoid tanning beds
 Check your skin regularly and report changes to your doctor

References:
Lebwohl, M., & Sarnoff, D. (2018). Actinic Keratosis (AK). Skin Cancer Information, 3. Retrieved August 29, 2018, from
https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/actinic-keratosis#panel1-3
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2018, March 7). Actinic keratosis. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 1-2. Retrieved
August 29, 2018, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/actinic-keratosis/symptoms-causes/syc-
20354969

GROUP 5
CARPO, Joseph Bryan T.
CHU, Beatriz Jayne N.
GUINID, Korrene Nicole A.
NORTE, Angel Madelaine B.
ROBIANES, Shannen Ynez D.
VIADO, Audrey Jessica B.
0761L 4:30-6:30 TTHS R205
BSMLS I