A - Z Encyclopedia
Understanding Actinic Keratosis
the Basics | Symptoms | Treatments
Treatments
What Are the Treatments?
A number of treatments are available for actinic keratoses. The treatments include:
- Cryosurgery. Liquid nitrogen "freezes" the surface skin, which causes some skin redness until the area is replaced by new skin. This is the most commonly used treatment
- Surgical removal and biopsy. The lesion may be removed and examined if there is a possibility it has become cancerous.
- Chemotherapy. A topical anticancer agent called fluorouracil may be applied to remove the skin lesion. A red spot may remain for some time.
- Photodynamic therapy. A chemical is applied to the skin and after several hours exposed to a light that activates the chemical to destroy the abnormal skin cells.
- Chemical peel. A chemical solution is applied to the skin to cause blistering and peeling and to trigger new skin growth. Redness and swelling will likely occur.
- Dermabrasion. A rapidly rotating brush is used to "sand" the skin lesion and trigger new skin growth. Skin redness and discomfort are side effects, but medications can bring relief.
the Basics | Symptoms | Treatments
