Actinic Keratosis
(Sun Spots) Treatment Bridgewater NJ
👨⚕️ Double Board Certified in Dermatology and Mohs Surgery
🎓 Fellowship Trained in Mohs Surgery
★★★★★ 5/5 Stars
Castle Connolly TOP DOCTORS
What are Actinic keratosis (Sun Spots)?
Actinic keratoses also known as Sun Spots or AKs are some of the most common lesions discovered during skin exams, and are often referred to as ‘pre-cancers’.
– Caused by ultraviolet (UV) light – found in both natural sunlight as well as tanning bed lamps.
– The estimated rate of transformation from AK to skin cancer ranges from less than 1% to well over 10%.
– Even though the transformation from AK to skin cancer is low, they can still turn into skin cancer and the general recommendation is to treatment them rather than monitor them.
Treatment Options
Topical Treatments – Treatments done at home
5-Fluorouracil (5-FU)/Calcipotriene: A chemotherapy/Vitamin D combination that destroys AK cells.
- Imiquimod: An immune response modifier that helps the body’s immune system fight AK cells.
- Tirbanibulin: Microtubule inhibitor that disrupts cell growth in AK cells
- Diclofenac gel: A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can reduce inflammation and AKs.
With all Topical Treatments you have to consider:
Common Side Effects: Redness, inflammation, scaling, mild discomfort.
Less Common: Skin discoloration, scarring,
In-Office Procedures – procedures done by the dermatologist in the clinic
- Cryotherapy: Freezing AKs with liquid nitrogen.
- Photodynamic Therapy (PDT): Applying a photosensitizing solution to the skin and then exposing it to a specific type of light.
- Chemical Peels: Applying a chemical solution to remove the top layers of damaged skin.
- Laser Resurfacing: Using a laser to remove the top layers of skin.
Common Side Effects: Redness, inflammation, scaling, mild discomfort
Less Common: Skin discoloration, scarring
- Important: Any AK treatment requires strict sun avoidance post-procedure for at least a few days.
- Early detection and treatment of AKs is crucial to help prevent the development of squamous cell carcinoma.
- Regular follow-up appointments with Dr. Parth Patel are important to monitor treated areas and check for new AKs.
- If you do unfortunately end up having a skin cancer it is not the end-all, be-all, we have the resources and expertise to help get you cancer free.
- Sun protection is essential to prevent AKs and reduce the risk of skin cancer:
- Apply mineral sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher daily.
- Seek shade, especially during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
- Wear protective clothing, including a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
- Avoid indoor tanning.
Call or Schedule an Appointment with Dr. Patel For Actinic Keratosis Today.