Actinic Keratosis

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1. What is Actinic Keratosis?
2. What Causes Actinic Keratosis?
3. Actinic Keratosis Symptoms
4. Diagnosing Actinic Keratosis
5. VIEW DR. DAMSTETTER’S FAVORITE SUN Protection Products
6. Actinic Keratosis Treatments
7. What to Expect During Treatment
8. What to Expect After Treatment
9. Schedule an Appointment

Actinic keratosis is the most common type of pre-cancer of the skin. Actinic keratosis is caused by excess sun exposure over time, whether from spending time outdoors without protecting the skin or through tanning beds. If left untreated, it is possible for actinic keratosis to develop into squamous cell carcinoma, a common type of skin cancer. For this reason, it is important to seek care from a qualified dermatologist, like Dr. Liz Damstetter, if you notice any signs or symptoms.

What is Actinic Keratosis?

Actinic keratosis is a growth that develops on the skin as a result of excess sun exposure over time. These epithelial precancerous lesions tend to be rough and scaly and are most often found on the face, lips, ears, scalp, neck, forearms, or hands as these areas receive the most sun exposure. Actinic keratoses are also known as solar keratoses, and when they form on the lips, they’re called actinic cheilitis. They are considered precancerous as they may develop into squamous cell carcinoma. This occurs in about 5-10% of actinic keratoses. Treatment will help prevent progression into cancer.

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“I had a recent visit to Dr Damstetter’s clinic and would like to share my experience. I am a Navy vet(corpsman) and usually get seen at the VA but since we don’t have a Derm provider right now, I was fortunately sent out to her clinic to be evaluated. It’s a nice clinic in a nice area and was relatively easy to find. A pleasant Ms. Nancy at the front desk was helpful in completing the check-in process. Easy day. I did not have to wait long and was soon met by Dr. Damstetter’s assistant, who for classified reasons I will refer to as “Agent 8”. I am sure if she gets tired of providing excellent medical care, her slick-ninja skillset could get her a job with the CIA or MI6 maybe. Short story long, Agent 8 brought me back to the patient area, where I was introduced to Dr Damstetter, who was all the things you would want in a doctor: a knowledgeable provider with a great bedside manner. She gave me a thorough exam which did end up showing that I needed a minor procedure. No worries. I felt well taken care of throughout my visit. No one likes to have to see the doctor, but if you have a dermatological concern, this is a good place with good people who did great by me, and I am thankful to have been sent here.”

“Dr. Liz is truly the best dermatologist I’ve ever been to. She is attentive, kind, and genuinely cares about her patients and their overall skin health. I can not recommend her enough!!!”

“Wonderful experience here! The doctor took the time to educate me on a variety of cosmetic options and gave her candid opinion resulting in just the right amount of cosmetic adjustments! Her staff was delightful and attentive! I would highly recommend for general derm needs and cosmetic adjustments.”

“Dr. Damstetter was the first dermatologist I trusted to do my Botox. She is both knowledgeable and professional and did a fantastic job. I will be using her for any and all of my future needs.”

What Causes Actinic Keratosis?

Actinic keratoses are caused by excess sun exposure over the course of your lifetime. They can also be caused by UV exposure from tanning beds. While anyone may develop actinic keratosis, some patients are at a higher risk. Risk factors include:

• Fair skin, especially that which tends to burn or freckle
• Red or blond hair and light-colored (blue, gray, or green) eyes
• History of sunburn
• Family history of actinic keratoses or skin cancer
• Age 40 or older
• Living in a sunny climate
• Working outdoors or participating in outdoor hobbies
• Weakened immune system

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Liz Damstetter, MD

Board-Certified Dermatologist

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Actinic Keratosis Symptoms

The most notable symptom of actinic keratosis is the rough, scaly, or dry patch of skin, which is typically less than one inch in diameter. Actinic keratosis may be flat or slightly raised above the skin’s surface. In some cases, they may be discolored and appear pink, red, or brown. Patches may bleed, itch, burn, or crust.

Diagnosing Actinic Keratosis

In many cases, Dr. Damstetter can diagnose actinic keratoses with a visual exam alone. However, it may be necessary to complete a skin biopsy, especially to rule out other conditions. This involves removing a small sample of the skin to test in a lab. With actinic keratosis diagnosed, Dr. Damstetter will discuss treatment options and whether further vigilance for skin cancer is needed.

VIEW DR. DAMSTETTER’S FAVORITE SUN Protection Products

Actinic Keratosis Treatments

After making a diagnosis, Dr. Damstetter will suggest removing an actinic keratosis lesion to prevent it from developing into skin cancer. The methods to treat actinic keratosis include:

• Cryotherapy, or freezing the growth with liquid nitrogen
• Curettage, or scraping the actinic keratosis away
• Laser therapy, in which an ablative laser is used to remove the actinic keratosis
• Photodynamic therapy, in which a light-sensitive chemical solution is applied to the actinic keratosis before exposing it to light, thereby destroying the growth

In addition to these treatments, some patients may benefit from medicated gels or creams to remove actinic keratoses. This is particularly useful for patients who have multiple actinic keratoses. Chemical peels are another frequently used option to address larger areas of actinic keratosis.

What to Expect During Treatment

Dr. Damstetter will discuss the available options with you and make a recommendation based on your biopsy results. All options can be performed at our office using a local anesthetic so you feel nothing. With your actinic keratosis treated, you will be given detailed aftercare instructions to ensure your treatment site remains free of infection.

What to Expect After Treatment

Remaining aware of actinic keratosis is key to being proactive if skin cancer emerges. Dr. Damstetter may recommend returning for regular skin checks to track the presence of any actinic keratosis and any changes over time. This allows you to act promptly and effectively. Protecting your skin with SPF 30+, board-spectrum sunscreen is key to protecting your skin and preventing further sun damage. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends wearing it daily.

Schedule an Appointment

To learn more about actinic keratosis treatment, schedule an appointment with Dr. Damstetter. Call Reserve Dermatology in Glenview, Illinois or contact us online.