I Think I Have an Actinic Keratosis, Should I Be Concerned?

Have you noticed a rough, scaly patch of skin that just won't go away? If you suspect you have an actinic keratosis, you should have it evaluated by a professional. 

At Dr. Hendi & Associates in Chevy Chase, Maryland, Ali Hendi, MD, and our experienced team of skin cancer specialists help patients identify and treat these common lesions before they become more serious.

What is an actinic keratosis?

An actinic keratosis (AK) is a rough, scaly patch on your skin caused by years of cumulative ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure from the sun or tanning beds. It’s classified as a precancerous skin lesion, meaning it has the potential to develop into a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. 

Because these lesions often feel like sandpaper and can occasionally flake off and return, many people mistake them for simple dry skin. However, they represent permanent DNA damage to your skin cells that requires professional evaluation.

Should you be concerned about an actinic keratosis?

You should take an actinic keratosis seriously because it’s a direct warning sign of broader skin cancer risk. According to a study published by the American Journal of Managed Care (AJMC), patients diagnosed with actinic keratoses face a 28.5% absolute risk of developing any skin cancer within five years. 

Furthermore, research from the Cleveland Clinic shows that approximately 65% of all primary, invasive squamous cell carcinomas develop directly from untreated actinic keratoses. 

While not every single lesion will turn into cancer, there’s no visual way to predict which ones will progress, making early intervention essential.

How do we treat actinic keratosis?

We offer several highly effective, customized treatments to clear these lesions and protect your skin. Because sun damage often affects a wider area than just the visible spot — a concept known as field cancerization — we frequently recommend therapies that treat the surrounding skin as well. 

These options include advanced topical prescription creams, like 5-fluorouracil, and photodynamic therapy (PDT), which uses a special light to target and destroy precancerous cells. During a comprehensive skin cancer surveillance exam, we evaluate your skin and determine the safest, most effective treatment plan for your unique needs.

Don't wait for a rough spot to become a larger health concern. If you've noticed a new, scaly, or changing spot on your skin, our experienced team is here to provide peace of mind and expert care. Contact our office today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation with our specialists.