Actinic keratosis Flashcards
1
Q
definition of actinic keratosis
A
premalignant skin condition - due to sun exposure
2
Q
characteristics of actinic keratosis
A
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
3
Q
mx of actinic keratosis
A
prevention of risk - sun avoidance, sun cream
flurouracil cream - 2-3wks (skin will become red and inflammed - give hydrocortisone)
topical diclofenac - mild
topical imiquimod
cryotherapy
curettage and cautery
4
Q
complications of actinic keratosis
A
risk of SCC if >10 AK - tender, thickened, ulcerated or enlarging actinic keratosis suspicious
cutaneous horn
other consequences of sun damage
5
Q
dx of actinic keratosis
A
dermoscope
occasionally a biopsy
