How actinic keratosis, the most common skin precancer today, is prevented and treated – Health and Medicine

2024-07-28 09:44:51

Actinic keratosis is one of the most frequently diagnosed skin diseases by dermatologists in Europe. It is a pathology that affects people who have been exposed a lot to ultraviolet radiation from the sun and manifests itself in the form of traumatic lesions with a pink base mainly on the face, ears, lips, back of the hands and scalp (bald. people), the areas most exposed to the sun.

This disease is chronic and, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, is considered to be the most common precancer, although between five and 10% of cases actually become skin cancer.

The prevalence of this disease in Spain is about 23% of people over 45 years old, a figure that is expected to increase due to the aging of the population, because it is the result of accumulated exposure to sunlight in life. life and, therefore, the risk increases with age.

In this context, it is particularly important to be aware of the importance of using preventive measures to avoid the appearance of actinic keratosis, such as wearing sun-protective clothing, avoiding sun exposure in the middle hours of the day and using medications. sun lamps and, of course, use sunscreen every day. In this case, it is important to use a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 (for people with sensitive skin who burn easily and those who have had skin cancer, it is recommended that the SPF is 50+). In addition, it must protect from UVA radiation, which is usually represented on the packaging with the word UVA inside a circle.

Also, it is important, if you are at risk of developing actinic keratosis, to check the skin regularly, pay special attention to the areas most exposed to the sun, and consult a dermatologist if look for suspicious injuries. Early diagnosis, along with appropriate treatment, is the best way to stop the progression of the disease.

How is actinic keratosis treated?

There are different treatment options for actinic keratosis depending on factors such as the number of lesions, size, location, and symptoms, among others, including topical medications, cryotherapy, photodynamic therapy, laser, dermabrasion, and surgery. , the latter even if it is suspected that it may have come into skin cancer. However, there are still unmet needs, such as facilitating treatment compliance, avoiding the local reactions they sometimes cause and impacting the quality of life of patients.

In recent years, new therapeutic options for actinic keratosis have been marketed to cover the needs of these patients with new formulations or procedures.

The choice of treatment should always be shared between the dermatologist and the patient to find the one that is best for their reality and is needed to achieve the best and longest results, prevent the transition to skin cancer and improve the quality of life patients’ lives improved. who lives with you. Yolanda Gilberte. Head of Service at the Miguel Servet University Hospital