Actinic keratoses

Question 1

What is it?

Answer 1

common premalignant skin lesion that develops as a consequence of chronic sun exposure

Question 2

features

Answer 2

small, crusty or scaly, lesions
may be pink, red, brown or the same colour as the skin
typically on sun-exposed areas e.g. temples of head
multiple lesions may be present

Question 3

management

Answer 3

1. prevention - avoid sun, sun cream
2. fluorouracil cream 2-3 week course + topical hydrocortisone cream
3. topical diclofenac milk AK
4. topical imiquimod
5. cryotherapy
6. curettage and cautery

Question 4

why is fluorouracil cream used with + topical hydrocortisone cream

Answer 4

fluorouracil causes the skin to become red and inflamed