What are the treatment options for actinic keratosis?

Actinic keratosis is a rough, sun-damaged patch that may occur on the face, scalp, ears, hands, or other exposed skin. A clinician considers the number, thickness, location, and appearance of spots, as well as whether a lesion needs sampling to check its diagnosis.

Cryotherapy freezes a selected lesion and is often suited to individual spots. Topical 5-fluorouracil or imiquimod can treat visible lesions and nearby sun-damaged skin over a prescribed course. Photodynamic therapy uses a light-sensitive medicine followed by targeted light and may cover a broader field.

Arrange a skin assessment before treating a changing, bleeding, tender, or unusually thick patch. Follow the prescribed application schedule for a cream and expect treated skin to become red, scaly, or crusted before it settles. Protect exposed skin from ultraviolet light with shade, clothing, and sunscreen chosen for your skin.

If a spot is removed, avoid picking the crust and follow wound-care instructions. Keep follow-up appointments so new or persistent lesions can be checked; a screening visit may be useful when sun damage affects several areas.

Seek prompt dermatology review for a lesion that grows, becomes painful, bleeds without clear injury, develops a firm raised edge, or fails to improve after treatment. Urgent assessment is appropriate for heavy bleeding, spreading redness with fever, or rapidly worsening pain.

Ask which lesions need biopsy or removal, whether a spot treatment or field treatment fits your skin, how to care for the treated area, and when the skin should be checked again.