The actinic keratosis. A perspective and update

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Oncology
• Preventive Medicine

Background:

• Actinic keratosis (AK) is a common, sun-induced epidermal neoplasm.
• It represents an early stage in the progression to invasive squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).
• SCC leads to thousands of preventable deaths annually in the United States.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive description of actinic keratosis.
• To educate participants on recognizing clinical manifestations of AK.
• To highlight the potential risk of AK progressing to fatal cancer.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and analysis were employed.
• The study synthesized existing knowledge on actinic keratosis.

Main Results:

• Most actinic keratoses (AKs) are asymptomatic, similar to SCCs.
• Untreated AKs pose a risk of progressing to potentially fatal cancer.
• Some AKs may resolve spontaneously through immune response or physical removal.

Conclusions:

• Prompt treatment of every AK is essential to prevent progression to invasive SCC.
• Cryosurgery and electrodesiccation with curettage are primary therapeutic options.
• Individualized treatment plans are necessary for each patient.