Also known as Solar Keratosis, Actinic Keratosis are in situ dysplasias reslting from sun exposure. Those individuals with light skin are particularly predisposed and the most common sites of involvement are the exposed surfaces of the face–ears, balding scalp, dorsal hands and forearms. The amount of damage can be profound, as shown on this first patient image.
The lesions are often multiple, discrete, flat or elevated, verrucous or keratotic, red (see above), pigmented (see above) or skin colored. The surface is often covered by adherent scale, but they also may be smooth or shiny.
They are often indistinct and may not stand out visually and are more detectable on palpation—feels rough like sandpaper. For more information on Actinic Keratosis click HERE. I will address the various forms of treatment on future posts.