Actinic keratosis

Alternative names:

keratosis - actinic (solar); solar keratosis; sun-induced skin changes - keratosis

Definition:

A precancerous skin growth usually caused by sun exposure.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

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. Approximately 20% of actinic keratoses develop into squamous cell carcinoma.

Associated conditions include senile skin, solar elastosis, and other sun-induced skin changes.