Diseases
actinic (solar) keratoses
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Actinic keratoses (also called solar keratoses) are dry scaly patches of skin that have been damaged by the sun. The patches are not usually serious. But there's a small chance they could become skin cancer, so it's important to avoid further damage to your skin.
Symptoms
- rough, dry or scaly patch of skin, usually less than 2.5 cm in diameter
- flat to slightly raised patch or bump on the top layer of skin
- color variations, including pink, red or brown
- itching, burning, bleeding or crusting
- new patches or bumps on sun-exposed areas of the head, neck, hands and forearms
Causes
- an actinic keratosis is caused by frequent or intense exposure to uv rays from the sun or tanning beds.
Risk factors
- have red or blond hair and blue or light-colored eyes
- have a history of a lot of sun exposure or sunburn
- tend to freckle or burn when exposed to sunlight
Diagnosis
- physical exam.
- skin biopsy
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is actinic (solar) keratoses?
Actinic keratoses (also called solar keratoses) are dry scaly patches of skin that have been damaged by the sun. The patches are not usually serious. But there's a small chance they could become skin cancer, so it's important to avoid further damage to your skin.
What are the symptoms of actinic (solar) keratoses?
rough, dry or scaly patch of skin, usually less than 2.5 cm in diameter, flat to slightly raised patch or bump on the top layer of skin, color variations, including pink, red or brown, itching, burning, bleeding or crusting, new patches or bumps on sun-exposed areas of the head, neck, hands and forearms
What causes actinic (solar) keratoses?
an actinic keratosis is caused by frequent or intense exposure to uv rays from the sun or tanning beds.
Which medicines are used for actinic (solar) keratoses?
fluorouracil, imiquimod
Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app
Open the complete reference, check multi-drug interactions and use dosing tools in the MediHelp app.