Actinic keratosis (AK) is a skin condition that is not cancer, but may change into cancer over time. This is a type of premalignant lesion. Not all AK lesions turn into basal or squamous cell cancers, but many will if left untreated. AK lesions do not turn into melanoma (a serious form of skin cancer). AK lesions appear as rough, red or brown, scaly patches on the skin. These patches occur in areas that have been exposed to the sun. They are often found on the face, hands and arms. They are more common in those with fair skin.

Most skin lesions, moles, freckles, and pigmented areas are harmless. But, it is difficult to tell the difference between AK lesions, skin cancers and other skin conditions. Any new skin:
* scaliness,
* oozing,
* bleeding,
* or change in appearance,

should be checked out by a healthcare provider.

If the change is found to be an Actinic keratosis lesion, treatment may include one of the following:
* topical chemotherapy,
* cryosurgery (freezing) ,
* electrodesiccation and curettage (burning) ,
* sanding the top layer of skin (dermabrasion) ,
* shaving the very top layer of skin, or
* laser therapy.

To prevent premalignant lesions and skin cancers be sure to:
* Avoid exposure to the sun, by using sunscreen, and wearing a hat.
* Protect yourself and your children from sunburns (sunburns may be linked with increased risk of melanoma in adult years).

To learn more about premalignant skin lesions, skin cancers and melanoma, call the American Cancer Society at (800) ACS-2345 or The National Cancer Institute at (800) 4-CANCER.

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