Actinic Keratoses (AK)

Houston, Texas

Skin Conditions

Actinic keratoses are considered the earliest stage in the development of skin cancer. They are small, scaly spots most commonly found on the sun exposed areas of the body, on the face, ears, neck, lower arms and the back of the hands in fair-skinned individuals. Actinic keratoses can be treated by freezing (cryotherapy), applying a cream or lotion (topical chemotherapy), chemical peeling, laser surgery, curettage, photodynamic therapy, or other dermatologic surgical procedures.

Some actinic keratoses may evolve to advanced stages requiring more extensive treatment. Proper use of sunscreens can help prevent these lesions even after extensive sun damage has already occurred.