Actinic Keratoses
It’s a pleasure to sit out in the sand, under the sun, on a beautiful beach or to enjoy a round of golf or whatever your outdoor activities may be – but it is important to keep in mind the damage the sun may be doing to your skin. Sunscreen and wearing protective clothing and hats are great ways to protect against some of the sun’s harmful rays, but damage is still common. Regular use of topical antioxidants can reduce the harmful effects of any ultraviolet rays that get through a sunscreen. When we’re younger, we often dismiss the thought of skin damage, assuming that our young bodies are invincible and will remain that way forever. In truth though, over time the sun will take its toll. Too often do I hear “If only I could talk to my younger self…” from patients who now realize the skin damage they’ve sustained.
Aside from sunburn, there is little immediate indication that skin has been damaged by the sun. Over time however, these damaged areas can form precancerous lesions called actinic keratoses lesions. These lesions usually are scaly and red. If left untreated, these lesions may become skin cancers.
We recommend that you check your skin regularly, as a way to catch any potential issue before it becomes a larger problem. Make note of any changes in the color, thickness, or look/feel of your skin. Be sure to contact a Dermatologist for evaluation of any lesions that are changing or that you are concerned about.
What Can Be Done?
As an adult, with regular check-ups and your own personal examination routine, actinic keratoses can be caught at an early stage. For isolated lesions it is common to use cryotherapy, which involves spraying liquid nitrogen on the affected area. When there is more extensive involvement with multiple lesions one may consider a topical cream such as 5-flourouracil or imiquimod. This approach requires weeks-months of treatment, and commonly results in significant inflammation. Another approach is using Photodynamic Therapy (PDT). The physician applies a topical medication, (Aminolevulinic Acid or ALA), in conjunction with the FDA approved Blu-U light. Typically two treatments are done at about a month apart.
If you have further questions regarding Actinic Keratosis, Skin Cancer, Photodynamic Therapy, or any other condition or treatment, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We will help you get the information and help you need.
