What Is Actinic Keratosis?

Actinic keratosis is a skin condition associated with long exposure to the sun. It typically presents as a small rough patch that is scaly and raised. The color may be pink, gray, red, or the same color as the skin. Actinic keratosis may develop into certain types of skin cancer.

Early treatment is important since actinic keratosis is considered pre-cancerous. Common drugs used to treat actinic keratosis are immune response modifiers (Aldara), nucleoside metabolic inhibitors (Efudex, Carac), and NSAIDs (Solaraze). Treatment also includes removal of the growth by electrical burning or freezing, or chemical peels.