Actinic keratoses - a systemic review

Abstract

Mainly elderly people with pale skin are affected by actinic keratoses (AK). Due to the demographic change, the prevalence of AK increased over the last years. An established risk factor is chronic UV-exposure (outdoor workers) inducing mutations of the tumor suppressor gene TP53 and the oncogene H-Ras. This leads to an intraepidermal proliferation of atypical keratinocytes. The term “field cancerization” characterises the presentation of multiple AK in UV-exposed areas. AK are also termed squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in situ. The risk for AK turning into a SCC is 6-10%. In order to avoid invasive growth, an early treatment is recommended. During the last years multiple therapeutic options have been established. Depending on the clinical extent, lesion- or field-directed therapies with excellent clinical response and cosmetic results are available.