Actinic Keratosis

Skin Cancer Prevention

Blue Light Photodynamic Therapy Treatment Option

Actinic Keratoses (AKs) are common precancerous growths on the skin.  Treatment of these lesions is the most common reason people visit dermatologists.  Ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun or tanning beds cause damage to cells in the skin.  If left untreated they can turn into Squamous Cell Carcinoma.  They are most commonly found on areas that receive the most sun such as face, ears, neck, upper chest, back, arms, hands, and lower legs.

Signs of AK’s:

• Dry, scaly and rough patches
• red bumps
• Thick red scaly growths
• crusted growths vary in color from red to brown to yellowish black
• A growth resembling a horn of an animal (cutaneous horn)

Risk Factors for AK’s:

• Fair or freckled skin
• Blod or red hair color
• Blue, green, or hazel eyes
• 40 years or older
• Tanning bed use
• A lot of sun exposure

Treatment options

• Cryotherapy
• Chemical Peels
• Topical Chemotherapy
• Blue Light Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)

There are many different treatment options for Actinic Keratoses.   Treatment of these lesions before they become skin cancer is key.  Detection, treatment, and prevention of skin cancer is our major focus at High Valley Dermatology.  Let us be your Skin Care Specialists.

Call High Valley Dermatology 522-SKIN (7546) to discuss the best treatment option for you.

Risky Squamous Cell Skin Cancers Can Kill

Squamous Cell Carcinoma signs and symptoms