Actinic Keratoses (AK) are precancerous skin lesions arising on sun-exposed areas
of the skin. AK’s are the most common precancerous lesion to develop on the skin
and have the potential to develop into squamous cell carcinoma. It is estimated
up to 10% of AK’s progress to SCC, but it is impossible to predict which lesions will
take this course. For this reason, AK’s must be treated aggressively.
The primary risk factors for development of AK’s.
CLINICAL PRESENTATION:
- Arise on areas of sun exposure: most commonly face, scalp, ears, dorsal arms
and hands - The sharp or gritty nature of AK’s often easier to feel than directly visualize
PREVENTION IS KEY!
- Development of AK’s is directly proportional to sun exposure. Use of daily
sunscreen, sun protective clothing, and sun avoidance are necessary.
TREATMENT OPTIONS:
- AK’s may remain unchanged, spontaneously resolve, or progress to SCC
- Management is based on number of lesions present on a body surface area
- For single lesions, cryotherapy is recommended.
- For multiple lesions, photodynamic therapy with Levulan or topical 5 Florouracil
as great treatment options.
TYPICAL AK LESION with hyperkeratotic scale on erythermatous base
CUTANEOUS HORN
PIGMENTED ACTINIC KERATOSIS
MULTIPLE AK LESIONS
distributed on the dorsal hand
If you have a patient in need of specialized evaluation or treatment for a suspicious skin lesion, call Sunflower Dermatology & Medical Day Spa
SCHEDULE YOUR EVALUATION OR TREATMENTS
AT SUNFLOWER DERMATOLOGY – KANSAS CITY
Treatments are performed by Licensed Aestheticians overseen by Board-Certified Dermatologists at both our Riverside and St. Joseph, MO Locations.
Our Riverside Location:
805 NW Platte Rd., Suite 120
Riverside, MO 64150 | CLICK HERE for Directions
Phone: (816) 205-8120
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Our St. Joseph Location:
805 N 36th St., Suite D
St. Joseph, MO 64506 | CLICK HERE for Directions
Phone: (816) 205-8120
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