pictures of actinic keratosis skin cancer pictures of actinic keratosis skin cancer

An actinic keratosis (AK) is a precancerous skin growth that develops on skin thats been badly damaged by ultraviolet (UV) light from: The sun. These can include the face, ears, bald scalp, neck, backs of hands and forearms, and lips. Actinic keratosis is a precancerous growth that is caused by damage to the skin. As the above pictures show, AKs come in many colors. Medicines If you have several actinic keratoses, your health care provider might prescribe a medicated cream or gel to remove them, such as fluorouracil (Carac, Efudex others), imiquimod (Aldara, Zyclara) or diclofenac. You can search by location, condition, and procedure to find the dermatologist thats right for you. Slideshow: Sun Damage Pictures Slideshow: Sunburn, Melanoma, Carcinoma, and More, Article: Understanding Actinic Keratosis - the Basics Cardiovascular health: Insomnia linked to greater risk of heart attack. Image 4: J Am Acad Dermatol. Actinic keratosis (AK) is a precancerous skin lesion, and more than 40 million Americans a year develop one, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association . Find out what may be causing the itch and what can bring relief. Epithelial precancerous lesions. In: Wolff K, Goldsmith LA, et al. However, in rare cases, its possible for BCC to spread deeper into surrounding tissues or to more distant parts of your body. They may order a skin biopsy and send a sample for laboratory testing if necessary. Left untreated, some actinic keratoses (AKs) turn into a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. The right self-care can help to prevent new AKs and skin cancer. SCC is a type of skin cancer that starts in squamous cells. The table below can help you to better compare the symptoms of actinic keratitis and BCC. A raised, rough-feeling patch on your skin that may be red, pink, skin-colored, or gray. Actinic keratoses affecting the nose. WebActinic keratoses (AKs) or solar keratoses are superficial tumors consisting of proliferations of abnormal skin cells that develop in response to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. AK is a type of precancer, which means that if you dont treat the condition, it could turn into cancer. early signs of actinic keratosis is important because these precancers can be treated and removed before they turn into cancer. If you want to diminish a noticeable scar, know these 10 things before having laser treatment. In a small number of people, actinic keratosis can turn into SCC, not BCC. Related to actinic keratosis, actinic cheilitis is a precancerous condition that usually appears on the lower lips. Actinic keratosis (AK) is the most common precancer that forms on skin damaged by chronic exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun and/or indoor tanning. Anyone who has AKs should be under a dermatologists care. Similarly, color variations range from light to dark with variations throughout the patches. A doctor or skin care specialist can offer guidance on the best approach. Having just one precancerous skin growth means that the sun, indoor tanning, or both have badly damaged your skin. WebWhen an actinic keratosis appears in this form, it often indicates that the person has a higher risk of developing a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. Later, a visible AK appeared on his sandpaper-like patch of skin. But skin cancers can look different from these examples. It's hard to tell which actinic keratoses will develop into skin cancer, so they're usually removed as a precaution. Knowing what to look for can help a person spot an actinic keratosis early on so that they can bring it to a doctors attention. Squamous cell carcinomas commonly appear on sun-exposed body parts, including the face, ears, neck, lips, and back of the hands. Since theyre so close to nerve endings, these cells play a role in our sense of light touch, the ACS says. WebActinic keratosis is a precancer, or a skin abnormality that could lead to cancer that forms when cells in the top layer of skin begin to grow abnormally. Thicker lesions need to be carefully evaluated to be sure that skin cancer is not present. Some doctors even believe they are one and the same, just at different points along the continuum. Precancerous means that the condition can progress to cancer without treatment. Growth that looks like an animals horn. While actinic keratosis cant turn into BCC, the two conditions can share similar symptoms, such as dry scaly skin, itching, and bleeding when scratched. Only about 10 percent of actinic keratoses will eventually become cancerous, but the majority of SCCs do begin as AKs. Getting just one bad sunburn, having fair skin or red hair, living at high elevations, flying frequently or driving a lot, exposure to certain chemicals, and having a family history of skin cancer can all significantly spike your risk of the disease. However, certain risk factors make people more likely to develop them. I used reflective blankets and baby oil all the time, she told The Mighty. Raise awareness. Overview. While the estimated risk of progression to SCC can vary greatly, the average risk is believed to be around 8%. Real-world assessment and treatment of locally advanced basal cell carcinoma: Findings from the RegiSONIC disease registry. Actinic Keratoses affecting the face. Learn to distinguish healthy growths from cancerous ones. Vis K, Waalboer-Spuij R, et al. > Go to the image library. Reviewed by: But skin cancers can look different from these examples. WebPrevent skin cancer. Unfortunately, theres no way to tell which AKs will become dangerous, so monitoring and treating any WebPicture of Actinic Keratosis (Solar Keratosis) Actinic keratoses are rough , scaly spots that form on sun-damaged skin. Venosa, A. WebActinic keratoses (AKs) or solar keratoses are superficial tumors consisting of proliferations of abnormal skin cells that develop in response to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Causes of actinic keratosis. All rights reserved. Images 1,2, and 9: Used with permission of the American Academy of Dermatology National Library of Dermatologic Teaching Slides. WebActinic keratoses (solar keratoses) Actinic keratoses (also called solar keratoses) are dry scaly patches of skin that have been damaged by the sun. Treatment options for actinic keratosis, or age spots, include topical medication or in-office procedures. In pictures of actinic keratosis, you'll see they are typically pink, scaly, and flat. It's hard to tell which actinic keratoses will develop into skin cancer, so they're usually removed as a precaution. Actinic Keratosis: 12 of 14 Extensive sun damage and AK. You already know that spending too much time in the sun without applying sunscreen can boost your chances of skin cancerbut there are tons of other risk factors to keep on your radar, too. (2022). 2007 Interactive Medical Media LLC. See pictures and learn about causes, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and, A new mRNA skin cancer vaccine being developed by Moderna showed promise in a phase 2 clinical trial in treating late-stage melanoma, Actinic keratosis lesions appear on parts of your body regularly exposed to sun, like your face. Like other types of skin cancer, its caused by too much exposure to UV light, and most people develop more than one affected area. As you open an image you can use the play button to start/pause the slide show or use the arrows to navigate between the images. This picture gallery contains some examples of the more common types of skin cancer, as well as some other non-cancerous types of skin growths. The composition of treatment plans will vary depending on the persons preference and the severity of their symptoms. Actinic Keratoses affecting the face. Read more about actinic keratosis. An actinic keratosis is a precancerous growth on the skin that forms due to long-term exposure to UV light. Unfortunately, theres no way to tell which AKs will become dangerous, so monitoring and treating any There are several different types of skin cancer with Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, Bowens Disease, Keratoacanthoma, Actinic Keratosis and Melanoma most commonly occurring.. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer, and least Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. Although in most cases, there are no other signs or symptoms, some people can experience itching, tenderness, and stinging. WebActinic keratoses and squamous cell carcinoma can look similar; in fact, an actinic keratosis can turn into a squamous cell carcinoma. I rarely used sunscreen at all. Then in 2013, while at an appointment with a dermatologist, she was told she had actinic keratosis (AK), a pre-cancerous growth caused by too much exposure to ultraviolet radiation. An actinic keratosis (AK) develops when skin has been badly damaged by ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun or indoor tanning. Heres what you need to know. They can do tests to determine if its benign, precancerous, or cancerous. Actinic Cheilitis (Farmer's Lip) 3 /22. aad.org/public/diseases/skin-cancer/actinic-keratosis-symptoms, journals.lww.com/jdnaonline/Fulltext/2020/11000/Skin_Cancer,_Back_to_Basics__Actinic_Keratosis.3.aspx, jaad.org/article/S0190-9622(21)00502-8/fulltext, cancer.org/cancer/basal-and-squamous-cell-skin-cancer/about/key-statistics.html, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6939186/, journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0262151, cancer.org/cancer/basal-and-squamous-cell-skin-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/signs-and-symptoms.html, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4112263/, cancer.org/cancer/basal-and-squamous-cell-skin-cancer/treating/basal-cell-carcinoma.html, nhs.uk/conditions/non-melanoma-skin-cancer/treatment/, cancer.org/cancer/basal-and-squamous-cell-skin-cancer/about/what-is-basal-and-squamous-cell.html, curemelanoma.org/patient-eng/melanoma-treatment/adjuvant-therapy, 5 Prescription Treatments for Removing Actinic Keratosis at Home, Everything You Need to Know About Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer, Mohs Surgery for Basal Cell Carcinoma: Before and After Treatment. Find out why dark spots appear and what can fade them. WebActinic keratosis (AK), sometimes called solar keratosis or senile keratosis, is a pre-cancerous area of thick, scaly, or crusty skin. AKs often appear as small dry, scaly or crusty patches of skin. Actinic Keratosis Warning Signs and Images, Basal Cell Carcinoma Warning Signs and Images, Merkel Cell Carcinoma Warning Signs and Images, Merkel Cell Carcinoma Patient Support Center, Squamous Cell Carcinoma Warning Signs and Images, Advanced Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment, Celebrities and Skin Cancer Theyre Just Like Us, Emerging Technologies for High-Risk Skin Cancers: Tools for Informed Decision Making. WebThe following are clinical images of squamous cell skin cancer, starting with early stages. What causes actinic keratosis and basal cell carcinoma? 2 These precancerous skin growths are common because many people seldom protect their skin from the sun with It may also be used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells. It is often treated because it might turn into squamous cell skin cancer. In other cases, they come and go in the same spot. Smart Grocery Shopping When You Have Diabetes, Surprising Things You Didn't Know About Dogs and Cats, Smoking Pot Every Day Linked to Heart Risks, Artificial Sweetener Linked to Heart Risks, FDA Authorizes First At-Home Test for COVID and Flu, New Book: Take Control of Your Heart Disease Risk, MINOCA: The Heart Attack You Didnt See Coming, Health News and Information, Delivered to Your Inbox, Precancerous Skin Lesions and Skin Cancer Picture Slideshow, Sun Damage Pictures Slideshow: Sunburn, Melanoma, Carcinoma, and More, Understanding Actinic Keratosis - the Basics, Understanding Actinic Keratosis - Symptoms, Precancerous Skin Lesions and Skin Cancer. This damage usually comes from the sun or tanning beds. Treatment options for actinic keratosis, or age spots, include topical medication or in-office procedures. Everyone's at risk for skin cancer. In rare instances, they may bleed or develop a persistent sore, also known as an ulceration. While it can look like other types of skin cancer, there are a few characteristics to keep in mind: Alisa Hrustic is the deputy editor at Prevention, where she leads the brands digital editorial strategy. They are noncancerous but can resemble melanoma, so it may be best to ask, A look at hyperkeratosis, a condition where the skin becomes thicker than normal. Webactinic keratosis skin keratosis solar keratosis 653 Keratosis Premium High Res Photos Browse 653 keratosis stock photos and images available, or search for actinic keratosis or skin keratosis to find more great stock photos and pictures. Your treatment may vary depending on if you have actinic keratosis or BCC. They may be red, light or dark tan, white, pink, flesh-toned or a combination of colors and are sometimes raised. The physician applies these creams and gels directly to affected areas of the skin to treat visible Espaol. See your dermatologist every yearfor a professional skin exam. Basal cell carcinoma symptoms: Unfortunately, basal cell carcinoma is easy to ignore because a lot of times people think the spot is a pimple or blemish that wont heal, Dr. George says, especially on the face, neck, and ears. This article was medically reviewed by Mona Gohara, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist and member of the Prevention Medical Review Board, in August 2022. This picture gallery contains some examples of the more common types of skin cancer, as well as some other non-cancerous types of skin growths. Developing an actinic keratosis increases a persons risk of skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer. Fuchs A, et al. We use cookies to provide you with a better browsing experience. In the very early stages, squamous cell skin cancer can look like actinic keratosis. Actinic keratosis: Signs and symptoms. If left untreated, it could develop into squamous cell Validity and Reliability of the Dutch Adaptation of the Actinic Keratosis Quality of Life Questionnaire (AKQoL). Dermatology. LOCATION Frequently on ultraviolet (UV) exposed areas including the face, lips, ears, scalp, shoulders, neck, back of the hands and forearms. White patches on your lips can be a sign that you have a precancerous condition on your lips. An actinic keratosis is a precancerous growth on the skin. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of cancer in the United States and accounts for about eight out of 10 skin cancers, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). (n.d.). An actinic keratosis is a rough and often bumpy patch or lesion that forms on the skin. I rarely used sunscreen at all. Then in 2013, while at an appointment with a dermatologist, she was told she had actinic keratosis (AK), a pre-cancerous growth caused by too much exposure to ultraviolet radiation. For photos, go to our warning signs page. Actinic keratosis is caused by cumulative skin damage from repeated exposure to ultraviolet light, including that found in sunshine. (2019). Another name for AK is solar keratosis. WebActinic keratosis: Rough, scaly patches of skin that are considered precancerous and are due to sun exposure. Eisen DB, et al. But there's a small chance they could become skin cancer, so it's important to avoid further damage to your skin. Actinic keratosis is a type of precancerous skin lesion. Its important to receive early treatment for both. Many actinic keratoses never progress. Seborrheic keratoses are usually brown, black or light tan. Read more about the causes, treatments, and symptoms of seborrheic keratoses . Some medicated creams include: In cases where a person only has a few spots or patches, a doctor may recommend removing the affected area through minor surgery. Images Image 1: Getty Prevalence and awareness of actinic keratosis: barriers and opportunities. J Am Acad Dermatol. This can help you get a closer look at the mole, as well as view areas like your back or butt. Images Image 1: Getty Prevalence and awareness of actinic keratosis: barriers and opportunities. J Am Acad Dermatol. Americans have one or more AKs. These skin cancers can also grow as a flat patch or become larger and nodular, adds Anthony Rossi, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Raise awareness. Accumulated UV exposure can damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to precancerous or cancerous changes. Its important to be able to recognize the symptoms of actinic keratosis and BCC. Related to actinic keratosis, actinic cheilitis is a precancerous condition that usually appears on the lower lips. Can poor sleep impact your weight loss goals? What is the latest research on the form of cancer Jimmy Carter has? It is also known as solar keratosis. See your dermatologist, who can accurately diagnose the lesion and recommend an effective treatment. If you notice any warning signs or symptoms, see a dermatologist. WebPrevent skin cancer. WebActinic keratosis (AK), sometimes called solar keratosis or senile keratosis, is a pre-cancerous area of thick, scaly, or crusty skin. This is estimated to happen in 1% to 10% of people. AK is a type of precancer, which means that if you dont treat the condition, it could turn into cancer. WebWhat is actinic keratosis? Dermatologists team up to improve patient care, JAK inhibitors: A newer type of medication, Free materials to help raise skin cancer awareness, Dermatologist-approved lesson plans, activities you can use. Key statistics for basal and squamous cell carcinoma. 1,2. Is the ketogenic diet right for autoimmune conditions? Overview. WebActinic keratoses (plural of actinic keratosis) describes lesions on the outer skin layer caused by too much exposure to the ultraviolet rays of sunlight. There are different staging guidelines for basal and squamous cell. Actinic keratosis is a precancerous growth that is caused by damage to the skin. If you notice one actinic keratosis, it is likely that you have others. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 2000;42(1) part 2:S8-S10. In these situations, targeted therapy or immunotherapy may be used. WebActinic keratosis may be solitary but there are often multiple keratoses. Its pretty common to develop actinic keratosis, especially as you get older. Basal cell skin cancers can pop up anywhere, but most frequently occur in areas of the body that are often exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. Find out what can help. Brittany Risher Englert is a writer, editor, and digital strategist specializing in health and lifestyle content. This man said that a small patch of skin on the back of his neck felt like sandpaper. WebActinic keratoses (solar keratoses) Actinic keratoses (also called solar keratoses) are dry scaly patches of skin that have been damaged by the sun. Actinic keratosis: Signs and symptoms. Unlike sunburn, which is an immediate reaction to prolonged exposure to UV light, it takes years of regular sun exposure for actinic keratosis lesions to develop. Skin cancer can sometimes develop from precancerous lesions called actinic keratoses. You may see a scaly pimple-like bump or patch of skin that is: While most people see only a change to their skin, an AK can: Stick to your clothing, causing discomfort. actinic keratosis stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images. What are basal and squamous cell skin cancers? WebActinic keratosis (AK) is a skin disorder that causes rough, scaly patches of skin. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. These can include cryotherapy or topical treatment with 5-fluorouracil or imiquimod cream. (n.d.). The appearance varies. She spends most of her days diving into the latest wellness trends, writing and editing stories about health conditions, testing skincare products, and trying to understand the next greatest internet obsession. WebLifelong skin cancer exams can be life-saving. For example, actinic keratosis may present as a rough patch of skin thats similar to your skin tone. Its typically a slow-growing cancer that remains localized to the skin. (2022). Continue reading to discover more. The most likely location for an this precancer is sun-exposed skin. But there's a small chance they could become skin cancer, so it's important to avoid further damage to your skin. This is especially true for AKs that arise on the head or neck, where skin cancers may be more aggressive. The right self-care can help to prevent new AKs and skin cancer. actinic keratosis stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images. Actinic keratosis is a precancer, meaning that it can serve as a warning sign for future skin cancer. (2020). Fitzpatricks Dermatology in General Medicine (seventh edition). However, skin cancer impacts people of all skin tones (including darker skin) and backgrounds. It may look like this man has a badly chapped lower lip, but the white, dry, and cracked skin is actually a precancerous growth. Flat, scaly area that looks like an age spot. Red, tan, pink, skin-colored, brown or silvery. Squamous cell carcinoma is the second-most common skin cancer. WebWhat do actinic keratoses look like? JodiJacobson / Getty Images. (2019). These lesions are also called senile keratoses. Its estimated that treatment is effective for at least 90% of people with nonmelanoma skin cancers such as BCC and SCC. Actinic keratosis (AK) is a precancerous skin lesion, and more than 40 million Americans a year develop one, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association . For example, theyll ask you about when you first noticed a lesion and any symptoms that are associated with it. The spot on this mans nose may look like an age spot, but its actually an actinic keratosis. They are believed Multiple red bumps and tan crusts on the forehead and scalp. The size of actinic keratoses varies from tiny to an inch or more in diameter. Use these professionally produced online infographics, posters, and videos to help others find and prevent skin cancer. It most likely appears on areas of skin often exposed to the sun. These dermatologists' tips tell you how to protect your skin. These are: In order to diagnose either actinic keratosis or BCC, a dermatologist will first take your medical history. WebActinic Keratosis Pictures. AKs are often more easily felt than seen. Rare Skin Cancers Please visit our Rare skin cancers page for more information and pictures of rare skin cancers such as: She adds, they can also take a sample of the molea biopsyto look under a microscope to get a final diagnosis. Skin cancer is one of the most treatable cancers there is, but can be one of the most dangerous as people often dont detect them until its too late, Dr. Rodney says. When an AK appears in this form, it often indicates that the person has a higher risk of developing a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. Image 2: Getty Images References Ceilley RI, Jorizzo JL. Limiting time in the sun helps prevent the formation of actinic keratoses. 1 It is estimated that more than 40 million Americans develop actinic keratoses (AKs) each year. It tends to lie flat against the skin of the head and neck, but appears as Images Image 1: Getty Prevalence and awareness of actinic keratosis: barriers and opportunities. J Am Acad Dermatol. But because this risk is low, treatments are generally aimed at avoiding scars or other disfiguring marks as much as possible. Actinic keratosis. I used reflective blankets and baby oil all the time, she told The Mighty. Treatment options for actinic keratosis, or age spots, include topical medication or in-office procedures. Solar keratosis is another name for the condition. The most likely location for an this precancer is sun-exposed skin. As the above pictures show, AKs come in many colors. An actinic keratosis (ak-TIN-ik ker-uh-TOE-sis) is a rough, scaly patch on the skin that develops from years of sun exposure. WebActinic keratoses are lesions in the outer skin layer caused by too much exposure to the ultraviolet rays of sunlight. All rights reserved. A seborrheic keratosis (seb-o-REE-ik ker-uh-TOE-sis) is a common noncancerous (benign) skin growth. WebSkin cancer. AK is a type of precancer, which means that if you dont treat the condition, it could turn into cancer. (2019). WebWhat is actinic keratosis? These include your: Both conditions can also vary greatly in appearance. Skin may feel dry and rough to the touch, or raw, sensitive and painful, or even itchy with a pricking or burning sensation. Prevention is to cut sun exposure and wear sunscreen.Treatments include performing cryosurgery (freezing with liquid nitrogen), cutting the keratoses away, burning them, putting 5-fluorouracil on them, and using photodynamic therapy (injecting Actinic Keratoses affecting the face. Cancer stages describe the size of the primary tumor and how far cancer has spread. Many of the spots on this womans forehead, nose, and cheeks are actinic keratoses. Indoor tanning equipment, such as tanning beds or sunlamps. LOCATION Causes of actinic keratosis. Close adherence to the chosen treatment plan is critical to ensure the best possible outcome. It's also common to have harmless brown spots or "liver spots." Actinic keratosis is caused by cumulative skin damage from repeated exposure to ultraviolet light, including that found in sunshine. Additionally, factors that are important for determining the recommended treatment for both conditions can include: Lets look at the various treatment options for each condition now. Guidelines of care for the management of actinic keratosis. Should that change be an AK, you have a greater risk of developing skin cancer. As you open an image you can use the play button to start/pause the slide show or use the arrows to navigate between the images. The following pictures show some diverse ways that it can appear. An actinic keratosis can develop after ultraviolet light from the sun or from indoor tanning damages cells in the skin called keratinocytes, according to the AAD. These growths may appear as bumps, scales, or patches of rough, crusty skin. WebActinic Keratosis Pictures Home About Skin Cancer Prevention Treatment & Care Skin Cancer Pictures & Articles Actinic Keratosis Pictures As you open an image you can use the play button to start/pause the slide show or use the arrows to navigate between the images. This is typically recommended when a lesion cant be treated surgically. Surgical procedures for actinic keratosis include: People with an actinic keratosis are at risk of developing cancer if they do not receive appropriate treatment for the condition. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. They appear gradually, usually on the face, neck, chest or back. 58 MILLION If left untreated, it could develop into squamous cell It can be itchy, painful, or bleed if you scratch at it. Then, well break down how each condition is diagnosed and treated. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. What do actinic keratosis and basal cell carcinoma look like? In pictures of actinic keratosis, you'll see they are typically pink, scaly, and flat. In most cases, they present in people aged 50 years or older. WebActinic keratosis is a precancer, or a skin abnormality that could lead to cancer that forms when cells in the top layer of skin begin to grow abnormally. 2013;69(1):e5-e6. Avoid unprotected UV exposure. Actinic keratoses tend to appear as smaller patches of rough-feeling skin, for example, while seborrheic keratoses may resemble a wart or mole. For photos and information on actinic keratosis warning signs and symptoms, visit our Actinic Keratosis Warning Signs page. Cryotherapy for skin cancer is the use of liquid nitrogen to destroy a lesion. Some doctors even believe they are one and the same, just at different points along the continuum. It's often found on the face, lips, ears, forearms, scalp, neck or back of the hands. WebActinic keratoses and squamous cell carcinoma can look similar; in fact, an actinic keratosis can turn into a squamous cell carcinoma. How do doctors diagnose actinic keratosis and basal cell carcinoma? This damage usually comes from the sun or tanning beds. You can often feel an AK before you see it. Which Neutrogena Sunscreens Were Recalled? Like actinic keratosis, BCC lesions may bleed if theyre scratched or become irritated. Analysis of selected recurrence risk factors after treatment of head and neck basal cell carcinoma. Actinic keratosis is a disorder of epidermal keratinocytes that is induced by ultraviolet (UV) light exposure ().These growths are more common in fair-skinned people and those who are frequently in the sun. early signs of actinic keratosis is important because these precancers can be treated and removed before they turn into cancer.