Actinic keratosis: facts and controversies

Clin Dermatol. 2010 May-Jun;28(3):249-53. doi: 10.1016/j.clindermatol.2009.06.009.

Abstract

Actinic keratoses are common lesions that are generally clinically diagnosed. Although currently most actinic keratoses are treated, whether this is truly necessary is debated. Treatment of all actinic keratoses is advocated because preliminary evidence indicates that actinic keratoses may progress to squamous cell carcinomas. Some also consider actinic keratoses equivalent to squamous cell carcinoma.

MeSH terms

  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / etiology
  • Disease Progression
  • Humans
  • Keratosis, Actinic / complications
  • Keratosis, Actinic / pathology
  • Keratosis, Actinic / therapy*
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic
  • Skin Neoplasms / etiology
  • Unnecessary Procedures