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Actinic keratosis
Treatment
Actinic keratosis can sometimes spontaneously resolve, but there is a possibility of recurrence upon further sun exposure. Determining which actinic keratoses will progress into skin cancer is challenging, which is why they are typically removed as a precautionary measure.
To remove actinic keratosis, your healthcare provider may employ various methods:
- Medicines: If you have multiple actinic keratoses, your provider might prescribe medicated creams or gels such as fluorouracil, imiquimod, or diclofenac. These topical treatments can cause temporary skin inflammation, scaling, or a burning sensation.
- Surgical and other procedures:
- Cryotherapy: Liquid nitrogen is used to freeze and remove actinic keratoses. The freezing process causes blistering or peeling, and as the skin heals, the damaged cells are shed, allowing new skin to grow. Cryotherapy is a common and quick treatment typically performed in a healthcare provider’s office. Potential side effects include blisters, scarring, changes in skin texture, infection, and alterations in skin color.
- Scraping (curettage) and electrosurgery: In this procedure, your healthcare provider uses a curet to scrape off the affected cells. Electrosurgery may follow, using an instrument to cut and destroy the remaining tissue with an electric current. Local anesthesia is administered for this procedure. Potential side effects include infection, scarring, and changes in skin color.
- Laser therapy: Laser treatment is becoming increasingly popular for actinic keratosis removal. An ablative laser device is used to eliminate the affected patches, promoting the growth of new skin. Side effects may include scarring and skin discoloration.
- Photodynamic therapy: If you have multiple actinic keratoses or they reoccur after treatment, your healthcare provider may suggest photodynamic therapy. This approach involves applying special creams to the affected area and then using light therapy to destroy precancerous skin cells. During the healing process, it is important to avoid sun exposure for a few days.