Actinic Keratosis

Identifying Actinic Keratosis

AKs occur primarily on areas of the body that receive the greatest sun exposure. Commonly affected sites are the balding scalp, forehead, face, ears, neck, top of the forearms, and back of the hands. Although most AKs develop on the head and upper extremities, they can also occur on the legs.

AKs vary in appearance. They can be rough, small, solid, flat or raised skin and range in size from a few millimeters to 1 or 2 centimeters in diameter. They may be flesh-colored, red, and inflamed, or more deeply pigmented. As AKs evolve, the lesions commonly develop into yellow, crustlike scales. If this scale is removed, it may cause bleeding.

Any lesion which newly appears on your skin, or older mole or other marking which has changed in appearance, size, or color should be checked by your doctor.

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