Actinic keratosis

Abstract

The incidence of actinic keratoses (AK) is continuously rising worldwide and the most common risk factor is chronic UV exposure. Actinic keratoses have recently been classified as cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in situ [1, 2] and have the potential to develop into invasive squamous cell carcinoma. The risk for progression has been estimated around 10% [3]; however, much higher rates have been reported in immunosuppressed patients after organ transplantation [4]. In this regard early recognition and treatment of AK remains crucial.