KERATOSIS, ACTINIC |
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General Information
DEFINITION--A small area of sun-damaged skin that is precancerous. This can be a problem for athletes who spend a lot of time in the sun.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMSBrownish or reddish scaly patches on exposed areas of skin. The patches are painless.
CAUSES & RISK FACTORSKeratoses occur after prolonged exposure to the sun's radiation. The following factors contribute to their formation:
Outdoor athletic activities and sports.
Outdoor occupations such as farming.
Light complexion.
Repeated skin injury from excessive perspiration and heat, or friction with clothing and protective gear.
HOW TO PREVENTProtect yourself against direct sun exposure. When outdoors, wear a hat and protective clothing. Use sunscreen lotions and creams, and reapply them often during prolonged exposure.
WHAT TO EXPECT
DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES
Your own observation of symptoms.
Medical history and physical exam by a doctor.
SURGERYNot necessary nor useful for this disorder, but if skin cancer develops, surgery may be necessary.
NORMAL COURSE OF ILLNESSAn individual keratosis will disappear with treatment, but new lesions are likely to recur. If neglected, actinic keratosis can lead to skin cancer.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
Skin damage.
Skin cancer (including malignant melanoma, basal-cell carcinoma and squamous-cell carcinoma).
HOW TO TREAT
NOTE -- Follow your doctor's instructions. These instructions are supplemental.
MEDICAL TREATMENTAll patches require treatment to prevent skin cancer. Your doctor may use:
Liquid nitrogen to freeze the affected tissue.
Applications of various medications to the affected area.
HOME TREATMENT
Minimize direct sun exposure.
See your doctor for checkups every 6 months to ensure early detection and treatment of skin cancers.
MEDICATIONYour doctor may use:
Applications of fluorouracil to the affected area. This causes uncomfortable inflammation, but it is very effective.
Application of vitamin A ointment (still experimental).
ACTIVITYNo restrictions.
DIETNo special diet.
CALL YOUR DOCTOR IF
You have signs of an actinic keratosis. Even though this causes no symptoms, it is precancerous.
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