Surpassing even prostate, colorectal, lung and breast cancer, skin cancer is among the most commonly diagnosed forms of the disease. For the 20 – 39 age group, skin cancer is the most common of all cancers. There are many individuals who actually do not even know that actinic keratosis might potentially turn into squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer, if left unattended. If lesions from actinic keratosis are not treated, they have a 20% risk of becoming cancerous.

Other terms for actinic keratosis include solar keratosis and senile keratosis, and it usually appears as coarse, small spots of skin around 2 to 6 mm in diameter. These lesions are often red, sore, and painful to the touch. On some occasions, the lesions are covered with yellowish scales that might also appear as white.

Research studies have shown that actinic keratosis may lead to skin cancer which makes it a risky skin condition.

Studies prove that too much time under the sunlight is the major reason behind the occurrence of solar keratosis. Fair-skinned individuals are more at risk with regards to this skin condition, especially when they go outside without protection from the sun.

The most commonly affected parts of the body by actinic keratosis are the upper surface of the hands and the forearms. The reason is because these portions are commonly the ones that are exposed to the sun. The face, scalp, and nape are also major places for the actinic keratosis lesions to appear. For some, even their legs get affected with the skin condition.

It is highly advised that lesions from actinic keratosis be immediately removed once diagnosed. Upon seeing such reddish lesions, see your dermatologist as soon as possible. Have the doctor determine if the spots of reddish skin are precancerous. If the dermatologist finds the patches to be caused by actinic keratosis, you must act swiftly. With cancer, time is very important. You will have better chances of being cured of cancer if it is treated as as soon as possible.

Usage of creams is done by some for actinic keratosis treatment. Skin therapy with creams includes the usage of creams that are photodynamic, imiquimod, diclofenac, or 5-fluorouracil. Lasers are also used for this reason. Still other techniques include the burning/cutting of the lesions as well as cryosurgery.

No matter what kind of way you choose to deal with your skin lesions, do remember to engage only competent as well as respectable doctors. These precancerous spots can claim your life if you are not too careful.