Actinic keratosis (AK) is a precancerous skin condition that develops when cells in the outermost layer of the skin become abnormal due to sun exposure. It is characterized by rough, scaly patches that usually appear on areas of the body that are regularly exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears, scalp, neck, and hands.
While actinic keratosis is not contagious and does not spread from person to person, it can spread from one area of skin to another within the same person. This is known as intra-lesional spread, and it occurs because the abnormal cells that cause AK can spread to other areas of the skin over time.
Intra-lesional spread of actinic keratosis can be prevented by taking preventive steps, such as avoiding sun exposure and wearing protective clothing and sunscreen when outdoors. Additionally, treated areas should be monitored regularly for signs of AK recurrence, as this is an indication that the abnormal cells are still present and could potentially spread to other areas.
In rare cases, actinic keratosis can also spread to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes or internal organs. This is known as metastatic spread, and it is possible when the abnormal cells become cancerous and spread to other parts of the body. This is why it is so important to take preventive steps to reduce sun exposure and to seek treatment for actinic keratosis as soon as possible.