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AK: Precancerous sun damage

Actinic keratosis (AK) is a precancerous skin condition that develops from years of sun exposure. And if you have 1 lesion, you'll probably get more in the future.

AK is precancerous. If untreated, it may turn into certain types of skin cancer. And AK is common: about 58 million—or 1 in every 6—American men and women have it.

THE SYMPTOMS

AK lesions are usually small and noticeable red, brown, or skin-colored patches, or fields, that appear on the face, neck, hands, and scalp. They can also be found on other areas of the skin. AK lesions may


  • Have a rough or scaly texture, like sandpaper
  • Itch, burn, or sting
  • Range in size from 3 mm to 6 mm or wider
  • Be numerous, with several patches close together
  • Be surrounded by red, irritated skin

If you notice any of these symptoms, make an appointment with a dermatologist to see if it might be AK.

THE DANGER

AK AND SCC

AK is the most common precancerous skin condition. If left untreated, it may develop into a potentially dangerous skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). In fact, in the elderly, 40%-60% of all SCC develops from AK. Some doctors even consider AK to be SCC in its earliest stages.

Sometimes AK lesions can appear, then go away. Still, there's no way to tell whether AK will develop into a skin cancer. So it needs to be evaluated and treated by a dermatologist. If you or someone you know might have AK, contact a dermatologist. Then download a Discussion Guide to help you start a conversation.

AK FACTS

  • About 1 in 6 Americans is affected by AK.
    • It's seen even more often in Americans who are at risk and older than 40: about 60% of these people have AK.
  • AK is one of the most common skin diseases diagnosed by dermatologists.
  • AK may develop into a type of skin cancer called SCC.
  • In the elderly, 40%-60% of all SCC starts as AK.

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