Actinic keratosis
Also called: solar keratosis
A rough, scaly patch on the skin caused by years of sun exposure.
- Treatable by a medical professional
- Requires a medical diagnosis
- Lab tests or imaging not required
- Chronic: can last for years or be lifelong
Actinic keratosis usually affects older adults. Reducing sun exposure can help reduce risk.
Very common: More than 3 million US cases per year
Consult a doctor for medical advice
Sources: Mayo Clinic and others. Learn more
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Actinic keratoses are scaly spots or patches on the top layer of skin. With time they may become hard with a wartlike surface.
Actinic keratosis is a precancerous scaly spot found on sun-damaged skin, also known as solar keratosis. It may be considered an early form of cutaneous ...
Actinic keratosis is a rough, scaly patch or bump on the skin. It's also known as a solar keratosis. Actinic keratoses are very common, and many people have ...
Actinic keratosis (AK) is the most common precancer that forms on skin damaged by chronic exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun and/or indoor ...
An actinic keratosis often appears as a reddish spot (as shown here) that develops on skin you seldom protected from the sun over the years.