Actinic Keratosis (precancerous spots)

An actinic keratosis, or AK, is a rough, dry, scaly patch or growth that forms on the skin. An AK forms when the skin is badly damaged by ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or indoor tanning. Most people get more than one AK.  AKs are very common and one of the most frequent conditions we diagnose at SkinSmart Dermatology.

AKs are considered precancerous as few turn into a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma.  By having a regular annual skin cancer screening, we can catch these lesions early and treat them before they develop into skin cancer.

Q: How are actinic keratoses diagnosed?

A: Our dermatologists will diagnose an actinic keratosis (AK) by closely examining your skin. 

If we find a growth that is thick or looks like skin cancer, we will perform a skin biopsy during your office visit.  To perform a skin biopsy, we first numb the area and removes some (or all) of the growth and send it to a lab.  A dermatopathologist examines it under a microscope to determine if it is skin cancer.

If the growth is a skin cancer, you will need additional treatment.  In addition to excisional surgery, we also offer MOHS micrographic surgery for prominently placed cancerous lesions on the face and chest, minimizing the chance of regrowth and lessening the potential for scarring or disfigurement.

While many dermatologists will refer their patients to another doctor, we are able to perform this specialized treatment right here at SkinSmart Dermatology.  Dr. Callahan, who is a rare fellowship-trained MOHS skin cancer surgeon, supervises all surgical procedures. She has performed over 15,000 MOHS surgeries and is recognized as a “Top Doctor” by US News and World Report.  Read more about MOHS here

Q: How are non-cancerous AKs treated?

A: There are many treatments for non-cancerous AKs. Treatments for AKs at SkinSmart Dermatology include:

Cryotherapy: Destroys visible AKs by freezing them with liquid nitrogen. The treated skin often blisters and peels off within a few days to a few weeks. When the skin heals, you may see a small white mark.

Prescription medicine:  We prescribe a medicine including Efudex, Carac and Aldara to use at home to treat AKs.

Photodynamic therapy (PDT): PDT is a treatment that combines light with a photosensitizing solution tp destroy AKs. As the skin heals, new healthy skin appears.