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Actinic Keratoses

Actinic keratoses are small, scaly patches of skin that can be red or brown. They are found on areas of the body that get frequent exposure to the sun, such as the face, neck, arms and hands. There may be more than one of these patches in the same area. Actinic keratoses may itch and the area surrounding them may be red and irritated. Dr. Zizmor will evaluate any suspected case of actinic keratosis because it may develop into cancer.

Actinic keratosis is caused by over-exposure to the sun. People with fair skin are more likely to develop this condition, as are those with weak immune systems. Actinic keratosis is found in adults after years of sun exposure and frequent sunburns.

Several treatment options are available for actinic keratoses. To remove a single actinic keratosis, cryotherapy and curettage are both effective treatments. Cyrotherapy involves applies liquid nitrogen directly to the affected area to freeze it. The lesion sloughs away and healthy skin grows in its place. Curettage is done by scraping off the growth. The skin is numbed before this procedure is performed. Visit Dr. Zizmor for a consultation.

Multiple actinic keratoses can be effectively treated with creams or photodynamic therapy. There are different creams and ointments available that destroy the precancerous cells of actinic keratosis. They are not without side effects, though, and can cause itching, burning or pain on the treated area.