Actinic Keratosis
Overview
An actinic keratosis is a rough, scaly patch that forms on skin damaged by years of sun exposure. The patches are usually easier to feel than to see. They matter because a small number progress to squamous cell carcinoma, so dermatologists generally treat them rather than watch them.
Questions to Ask Your Doctor
- What is causing my actinic keratosis, and is anything making it worse?
- Which treatment do you recommend first, and how long before I should expect a change?
- What side effects should I watch for, and when should I contact you?
- Is this condition contagious, inherited, or linked to anything else in my health?
- What should I do differently if it flares or comes back?
Getting Care
A board-certified dermatologist can confirm the diagnosis and tailor treatment to your skin. If your symptoms change quickly, spread, become painful, or come with a fever, seek care sooner.
Source: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/skin-cancer/actinic-keratosis-overview
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