Actinic Keratosis
and Treatment Methods
Katherine Parkinson, MD
Dermatology
Parkinson Dermatology, S.C.
Spooner
What is an Actinic Keratosis (AK)?
An Actinic Keratosis (AK) is a precancerous lesion which has the potential to turn into a form of skin cancer called Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC).
While there are not typically any symptoms of an AK, some possible signs include:
- Rough-feeling patch on the skin that is difficult to see
- Rough patch or growth that is painful when rubbed or touched
- Itching or burning of a particular spot or area
- Lips that feel constantly dry
It is important to be aware that an AK may “flake off” and then seem to disappear for a while only to reappear some time later. However, it is still important to have these lesions assessed by a dermatologist as left untreated, more AKs may form and grow deeper into the skin resulting in the development of skin cancer.
Who is at risk to develop AKs?
While anyone with repeated sun exposure has the potential to develop an AK, some factors make certain individuals more likely to develop AKs. These factors include:
- Fair skin or skin which freckles and/or burns when in the sun
- Hair color which is naturally blond or red
- Eyes that are blue, green or hazel
- Men or women age 40 or older – AKs usually appear after age
40
which is long after a large amount of sun damage has occurred
How is an AK treated?
Once you have been clinically diagnosed as having AKs, more treatment will be necessary. There are many forms of treatment available including:
- Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) by Blue Light – A topical solution (aminolevulinic acid HCI) is applied to the area, which makes the skin more sensitive to light. After approximately one hour of incubation time, the area is then exposed to the Blue Light. The light activates the solution destroying the AKs. As the skin heals, new healthy skin appears. PDT via Blue Light is a relatively new treatment option that is utilized when a patient has numerous AKs. Common areas to be treated by PDT include those which typically receive the most sun exposure: face, scalp, ears, arms and hands. PDT offers patients a more effective treatment method by not only targeting the visible AKs but also those growing just below the surface allowing what physicians call “field treatment” or for example, treating the entire scalp which has been exposed to sun as opposed to simply treating the few visible spots. While a repeat treatment of PDT eight weeks after the initial treatment will be necessary for optimal results, one of the largest benefits to the patient is that there is very little “down time” while healing; lasting approximately 5–7 days.
- Cryotherapy – This method destroys visible AKs by freezing them with liquid nitrogen. The treated skin often blisters and peels off within 10-14 days. As the skin heals, you may see a small white spot where the AK was. Cyrotherapy is more likely to be utilized when patients have a small number of AKs to be treated.
- Topical Therapies – This form of treatment involves medications which are applied at home for approximately 2–4 weeks. Skin becomes red, swollen, crusted and irritated. Healing time can last up to an additional 2 weeks after which time healthier skin will be revealed.
- Imiquimod – helps to boost your immune system allowing
your body to get rid of the precancerous cells.
- Fluorouracil – a type of chemotherapy which inhibits and
destroys the cancerous cells
While treatment methods are becoming more common, the best treatment method is PREVENTION. Some prevention tips include:
- Avoiding the midday sun.
- Slather on a sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher EVERY day –
even on cloudy and/or winter days.
- Protect your lips with a lip balm containing an SPF 30 or higher.
- Protect your skin with clothing.
- Keep all appointments with your dermatologist to be evaluated
for new skin developments.
We are proud to be able to offer all of the above treatments to our patients; particularly PDT by Blue Light. Please call our office for evaluation and treatment.
Dr. Katherine Parkinson – Parkinson Dermatology, SC
For information or to schedule an appointment
715-635-3766 | www.parkinsondermatology.com
Dr. Parkinson sees patients in Spooner and Cumberland.
