Actinic Keratosis

Actinic Keratoses (AKs) are common, scaly growths that are found on sun-damaged skin. They are caused by years of sun exposure and consequentially, are usually found on older individuals. The most common sites to find Actinic Keratoses are the face, scalp, back of the hands, and any other sun-exposed areas. They usually appear as small, rough and raised areas. Often times, they are easier felt than seen. Most people don’t recognize they have AKs until they are found on a routine skin exam. They are considered a low-grade pre-cancer of the skin and rarely evolve into skin cancer.

Actinic keratoses are easily treated when they are found early. Routine skin exams are a good way to catch AKs while they are small. You can also prevent AKs from occurring by practicing good sun protection techniques.

If you have questions concerning Actinic Keratosis, call our office and schedule an appointment to meet with Dr. Myers. At your visit, Dr. Myers will work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan for your condition.

what is actinic keratosis treatment

Improving Actinic Keratosis

Since these lesions do have the potential to develop into skin cancer, we aggressively treat them while they are small and manageable. Treatment options can include:

Liquid Nitrogen

The spots are frozen, which kills off the damaged skin cells and allows for healthy skin to grow in its place.

Topical Medications

Used when patients have numerous AKs over a widespread area. The medication is absorbed by the damaged cells and destroys the AKs.

Photodynamic Theory

This procedure, done in our office, treats patients that have a lot of AKs over a widespread area. A topical medicine is put on the affected areas and the patient sits under our BLU-light that will destroy the damaged cells.

Surgical Excision

In certain cases, it may be necessary to excise the AK.

About

Dr. David Myers

Dr. David Myers is a board certified dermatologist and Fellow of the American Society for Mohs Surgery. His expertise and attention to detail make him a trusted doctor in his community.

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Our Locations

Contact us for all your health related inquiries!

  • Phone

    801.768.8800

  • Fax

    801.820.8200

  • Primary Office

    680 East Main Street, Suite 201, Lehi, UT 84043

  • Saratoga Springs Office

    62 E Thrive Drive, Suite 220, Saratoga Springs, UT 84045

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    680 E Main St., Suite 200, Lehi, UT 84043

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    1055 N 300 W Ste 303, , Provo, UT 84604

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