Actinic keratosis is a common skin condition caused by long-term sun exposure. It appears as scaly or crusty patches of skin, usually on the face, ears, scalp, shoulders, and back of the hands. Treatment for actinic keratosis often involves a combination of topical medications and procedures.
Topical Medications
Topical medications are creams, ointments, and solutions that are applied directly to the affected skin. Common topical medications used to treat actinic keratosis include:
• 5-fluorouracil (5-FU): A topical chemotherapy cream that is applied once or twice a day for 4 days.
• Imiquimod: A topical immune response modifier that is used to treat precancerous skin lesions. It is applied three times a week for up to 16 weeks.
• Ingenol mebutate: A topical chemotherapy gel that is applied once a day for 2 or 3 days.
• Diclofenac: A topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is applied twice a day for up to 90 days.
Procedures
In some cases, a procedure may be necessary to treat actinic keratosis. Common procedures used to treat actinic keratosis include:
• Cryosurgery: The affected area is frozen with liquid nitrogen to destroy the abnormal tissue.
• Laser therapy: A laser is used to target and destroy the abnormal tissue.
• Curettage and electrodesiccation: The affected area is scraped off with a special tool and cauterized with an electric current.
• Photodynamic therapy: A special light-sensitizing medication is applied to the skin and then exposed to a special light source to destroy the abnormal tissue.
• Topical chemotherapy: A topical chemotherapy cream is applied to the affected area to destroy the abnormal cells.
The specific treatment plan for actinic keratosis will depend on the size and number of lesions, the patient’s overall health, and the patient’s preferences. It is important to discuss all treatment options with a doctor before beginning any treatment.