Hyperkeratotic actinic keratosis

Hyperkeratotic Actinic Keratosis

Actinic Keratosis is a skin condition sometimes referred to as “solar keratosis” or “senile keratosis”. It is a spot, bump, patch, or a scaly area of skin that forms due to damage caused by long-term sun exposure. Hyperkeratotic actinic keratosis (HKAK) refers to a type of actinic keratosis that is particularly thickened and scaly.

When an individual has HKAK, their skin will look bumpy or scaly, and the color can range anywhere from light to dark brown, grey, or yellow. HKAK can also have small red bumps. Generally it forms on the skin found on the head, arms, or hands, which can include areas such as the face, lips, and scalp.

Potential Causes of Hyperkeratotic Actinic Keratosis

HKAK is usually caused by long periods in the sun, especially among people over the age of 45. Some doctors also believe that individuals who tan frequently, have skin type, and fair skins are more prone to developing HKAK.It can also be caused by exposure to other sources of ultraviolet radiation such as artificial-ultraviolet beds in tanning salons, or from long-term use of antipsoriatic phototherapy.

Risk Factors of Hyperkeratotic Actinic Keratosis

The most common risk factors for developing HKAK are:

Male
Age over 45
Fair skin
Exposure to the sun and/or ultraviolet radiation
Immunosuppressive drugs
Pre-existing skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema

Signs and Symptoms of Hyperkeratotic Actinic Keratosis

Signs and symptoms associated with HKAK may include:

Permanent rough, scaly or bumpy patches of skin

Small spots on the arms, hands, chest, or face

Patches that are scaly, dry, flaky, crusted, or raised areas

Patches that are reddish, light brown, dark brown, or yellow in color

Pain or itching around the patches

Treatment for Hyperkeratotic Actinic Keratosis

Treatment for HKAK may include:

Topical medication
Cryosurgery, which involves freezing the affected skin with liquid nitrogen
Photodynamic therapy, which uses light and medicine to treat AK
Laser treatment
Curettage and electrodesiccation to scrape and burn the affected skin

Prevention of Hyperkeratotic Actinic Keratosis

The best way to prevent HKAK is to limit sun exposure by:

Seeking shade whenever possible
Avoiding outdoor activities during the peak hours of the day
Wearing protective clothing and hats
Wearing sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher whenever going outdoors