Spreading pigmented actinic keratoses.

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Oncology
• Pathology

Background:

• Pigmented keratoses are common skin lesions.
• Facial lesions may have distinct clinical presentations.
• Understanding progression is crucial for early cancer detection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the clinical and histological features of facial pigmented keratoses.
• To identify potential indicators of malignant transformation.
• To report on the progression of these lesions.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of ten cases of facial pigmented keratoses.
• Clinical examination and photographic documentation.
• Histopathological evaluation of biopsied or excised lesions.

Main Results:

• All ten lesions were larger than 1.5 cm and showed centrifugal spread.
• Variable pigmentation (macular to deeply pigmented) and surface textures (smooth, verrucous, scaly) were observed.
• Two lesions (20%) demonstrated progression to pigmented squamous cell carcinoma.

Conclusions:

• Facial pigmented keratoses exceeding 1.5 cm warrant close clinical and histological assessment.
• The presence of specific clinical features may indicate a higher risk of malignant transformation.
• Early detection and management are essential to prevent progression to squamous cell carcinoma.