Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Actinic Keratoses and Skin Cancer

1. What are actinic keratoses?
2. Who gets actinic keratoses?
3. What causes actinic keratoses?
4. Where are actinic keratoses usually found?
5. Are actinic keratoses deadly?
6. How are actinic keratoses treated?
7. Can actinic keratoses be prevented?
8. Where can someone get more information about actinic keratosis and skin cancer?

1. What are actinic keratoses?
Actinic keratoses (AKs) are a common skin condition characterized by rough, red, scaly patches, crusts or sores on the top layer of skin. If left untreated, they can progress into a type of invasive skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma, which can be fatal.

2. Who gets actinic keratoses?
AKs affect more than 10 million Americans. Because AKs take years to develop, their incidence increases as people age. Fair-skinned people living in sunny climates and those who have weakened immune systems (for example, people who have received organ transplants or those with HIV) are more prone to developing AKs and skin cancer.

3. What causes actinic keratoses?
It is believed that genetics and cumulative sun exposure are the main determinants for AKs. People with fair skin, light hair and light-colored eyes are thought to be the most sun sensitive and who face the greatest risk. Individuals with a history of extensive sun exposure and those who work or spend a lot of time outdoors through sports or recreational activities have a greater chance of developing AKs.

4. Where are actinic keratoses usually found?
AKs usually develop on the face, lips, ears, scalp, neck, forearms, and backs of the hands. These are the areas most commonly exposed to the sun.

5. Are actinic keratoses deadly?
AKs have the potential to progress into squamous cell carcinoma, the second-leading cause of skin cancer deaths in the United States. At least 40 percent of all squamous cell carcinomas begin as AKs. If caught early, AKs are treatable. But if they progress to squamous cell carcinoma and are left untreated, the cancer can grow and metastasize (spread to other organs), which can be deadly.

6. How are actinic keratoses treated?
Fortunately, various treatments are available for AKs. The course of treatment depends on the nature of the lesion, age and overall health of the patient. Common treatments include:

  • Surgical removal
  • Cryosurgery (during which the skin is frozen)
  • Electrodessication (heat generated by an electric current)
  • Topical medications
  • Photodynamic therapy (medicine applied topically followed by a special light)
  • Patient-administered cream that triggers an immune response
  • Lasers, chemical peels, and dermabrasion


7. Can actinic keratoses be prevented?

Prevention of AKs and skin cancer should begin in early childhood, but it is never too late to adopt safe sun practices. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends a comprehensive sun-protection program that includes:

  • Seeking shade whenever possible
  • Staying out of the sun when the sun's ultraviolent rays are the strongest — between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
  • Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a SPF of 15 or higher. Apply it every two hours or immediately after swimming or strenuous activities.
  • Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and protective clothing.
  • Discouraging sun tanning — in the sun or in a tanning salon.
  • Protecting children — babies younger than 6 months should be kept out of the sun. It may be safe to apply minimal amounts of sunscreen to small areas, such as an infant's face and the backs of the hands when adequate clothing and shade are not available. Sunscreen should be used on babies 6 months or older.
  • Performing regular skin self-examinations and consulting a dermatologist if a suspicious area is found.


8. Where can someone get more information about actinic keratosis and skin cancer?
For more information, contact the American Academy of Dermatology through its toll-free number, 1 (888) 462-DERM (3376), or visit these Academy Web sites: