Actinic keratosis
Definition
Actinic keratosis is a precancerous skin growth usually caused by sun exposure.
Alternative Names
Solar keratosis; Sun-induced skin changes - keratosis; Keratosis - actinic (solar)Causes
Actinic keratosis occurs most commonly in fair skin, especially in the elderly and in young individuals with light complexions. The growths occur in sun-exposed skin areas. The growths begin as flat, scaly areas that later develop a hard wart-like surface.
They are classified as precancerous growths. If left untreated, approximately 1% of actinic keratoses develop into squamous cell carcinoma.
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