Actinic keratoses

Question 1

Actinic, or solar, keratoses (AK) is a

Answer 1

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

Question 2

features of Actinic keratoses

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

erythematous, rough lesions

Question 3

Management options include

Answer 3

mild AKs = topical diclofenac

fluorouracil cream: typically a 2 to 3 week course. The skin will become red and inflamed - sometimes topical hydrocortisone is given following fluorouracil to help settle the inflammation

cryotherapy
curettage and cautery