What percentage of actinic keratosis turn into squamous cell carcinoma?
Actinic keratosis (AK) is a pre-cancerous skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, and it can lead to the development of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), a type of skin cancer. The exact percentage of actinic keratoses that turn into SCC is not known, but studies suggest that the risk ranges from 1 to 10 percent.
AK: Actinic keratosis is a pre-cancerous skin condition caused by chronic sun exposure. It is characterized by thick, scaly patches that can range in color from white to pink to red.
SCC: Squamous cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer that can develop from actinic keratosis. It is characterized by the presence of red, scaly patches that can sometimes bleed or become crusty. SCC can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated.
Studies suggest that the risk of actinic keratoses turning into SCC ranges from 1 to 10 percent. The exact percentage depends on several factors, including the size and number of lesions, the presence of skin cancer in the family, and the patient's age, sex, and skin type. Additionally, patients who are not properly treated for AK are more likely to develop SCC.
The best way to reduce the risk of actinic keratoses turning into SCC is to take preventive measures. These include avoiding excessive sun exposure, using a broad-spectrum sunscreen, and avoiding tanning beds. Patients should also have regular skin examinations and seek prompt medical treatment for any suspicious lesions.