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What Causes Actinic Keratosis?

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Posted on Wed, 24 May 2017
Question: actinic porokeratosis have been diagnosed with Having a problem with my computer. Do you get my drift?
I am depressed about the prognosis. Please fill me in.

doctor
Answered by Dr. Chobufo Ditah (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
See below!

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thanks for contacting us.

Actinic keratosis are hardened skin lesions that develop following years of prolonged exposure to sunlight. They most commonly appear on the face, scalp, neck, arms, etc. They generally cause no pain or other symptoms but for the fact that they may not be very appealing to sight. However, a very tiny percentage might develop into skin cancer after several years.

While some actinic keratotic lesions might disappear spontaneously, the general consensus is to treat them. We use medications or minor surgical procedures to remove them. This is followed by monitoring for any further growths so that they can be assessed and removed. Also, keeping away from direct sunlight exposure is very helpful.

Should you panic? NO. I will suggest that they get removed is just a few or medications used to apply and monitoring thereafter to ensure non recurrence.

I hope this helps. I wish you well. Feel free to follow up with me if need be.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Chobufo Ditah (2 hours later)
Doctor. Thanks for your quick response. Please tell me what surgical procedure you may use and what meds you may use. I may be 80 years old but I still care about my appearance. This has thrown me for a loop; I have read so many horror stories about it. Thanks again and I look forward to hearing from you. XXXX
doctor
Answered by Dr. Chobufo Ditah (2 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Creams and surgical procedures as detailed below!

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

These would be commonly available and used medications.

Creams such as Fluorouracil cream (Carac, Fluoroplex, Efudex) and Imiquimod cream (Aldara, Zyclara) can be used. Some also use voltarene gel. You would certainly consult with your doctor for scripts and guidance.

Other procedures such as phototherapy or surgical approaches such as curettage and cryotherapy(some of which I as I see you've already undergone).

Let me know if this addresses your worry.
Regards

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee
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Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Chobufo Ditah

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2009

Answered : 6323 Questions

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What Causes Actinic Keratosis?

Brief Answer: See below! Detailed Answer: Hi and thanks for contacting us. Actinic keratosis are hardened skin lesions that develop following years of prolonged exposure to sunlight. They most commonly appear on the face, scalp, neck, arms, etc. They generally cause no pain or other symptoms but for the fact that they may not be very appealing to sight. However, a very tiny percentage might develop into skin cancer after several years. While some actinic keratotic lesions might disappear spontaneously, the general consensus is to treat them. We use medications or minor surgical procedures to remove them. This is followed by monitoring for any further growths so that they can be assessed and removed. Also, keeping away from direct sunlight exposure is very helpful. Should you panic? NO. I will suggest that they get removed is just a few or medications used to apply and monitoring thereafter to ensure non recurrence. I hope this helps. I wish you well. Feel free to follow up with me if need be.