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Actinic keratosis is a precancerous skin condition that is caused by long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or indoor tanning. It is also known as solar keratosis.
Actinic keratosis appears as rough, scaly patches on the skin that are usually flat and pink, red, or brown in color. They are most commonly found on sun-exposed areas of the body, such as the face, scalp, ears, neck, arms, and hands. These patches may be itchy, tender, or have a burning sensation.
Actinic keratosis is not cancer, but it can progress to squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer. Therefore, it is important to have any suspicious patches of skin checked by a dermatologist, especially if they are changing in size, shape, or color.
Treatment for actinic keratosis may include:
Prevention of actinic keratosis involves protecting the skin from UV radiation by wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher, avoiding tanning beds, and seeking shade during peak hours of sun exposure.