Actinic Keratosis

Definition & Overview: Actinic Keratosis (AKs) is a premalignant form of skin cancer characterized by rough, red, scaly patches, crusts or sore spots appearing on the skin. Actinic Keratosis can range in color from red, pink, tan, brown to dark red and measure 1/8th to 1 inch in size and can feel like sandpaper. AKs most commonly develop on the ears, face, scalp, back of neck, shoulders, upper chest, hands and forearms. Actinic Keratosis is also called solar or senile keratosis.

According to the American Association of Dermatology, "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." Approximately 10 million American have AKs and the rate of occurence is higher in warmer, sunnier parts of the USA.(1) The number of people with AKs is growing and is now a top reason why people visit a dermatologist.

Causes and Risk Factors: AKs are caused by years and years of sun exposure either through work or play (such as golf, fishing or irresponsible sun bathing) and is more common in fair skinned people. Years of sun exposure cause the outermost skin cell layers (known as keratinocytes) to change in size, shape, and the way they are organized (1). Since AKs can take years to develop, they are more common in people 40 and older. However, even people in their 20s and 30s can develop actinic keratosis. A breakdown of the the important risk factors include:

Long exposure to the sun: It's important to note that AKs take years to develop. A young person in their teens or 20s who enjoys the outdoors may not think about AKs until they start appearing in in their 30s and 40s. Therefore, early prevention is very important.

Fair Skin and Skin Sensitivity: Do you have white, alabaster or pale skin? Does your skin burn easily or freckle from the sun? If so, you probably have an increased risk for actinic keratosis.

Age: As people grow older, they are at increased risk of developing AKs. If you are 40 years old or older, your risk of developing AKs increases and elderly people are especially susceptible.

Geographic Location: People who live in South Florida, Arizona, and Southern California enjoy more year-round sunny weather but they also have a higher chance of developing actinic keratosis.

Weak Immune System: People with a weak immune system are at risk for AKs. This includes those with a life-long weak immune system and those whose immune system is weak or depleted due to medication, chemotherapy, illness, etc.

Diagnosis: Doctors can easily diagnose actinic keratosis by examination. A biopsy may be required if the keratosis is large or thick to determine if it in fact is cancer.

Conditions & Diseases: Skin Diseases