Keratosis is a skin condition caused by excessive keratin on skin. Keratin composes the hair and nails of humans. Excessive quantity of this could be bad for the skin. different types of keratoses have different characteristics and corresponding treatment.
Actinic Keratosis
Actinic keratosis also goes by the title solar keratosis and senile keratosis. AK is said to be caused by too much exposure to the sun’s UV radiation and is associated with old age, thus it is sometimes called solar keratosis or senile keratosis. Squamous cell carcinoma can be developed from lesions brought about by actinic keratosis. The main attributes of actinic keratosis is its thick, crusty and scaly bumps appearing on the parts of the body exposed mostly to the sun. Since it is one of the skin cancer warning signs, it must be paid attention to and removed with the recommendation of a dermatologist.
Actinic Keratosis Treatments
It is a relief that actinic keratosis can be cured in many ways. One can select for non surgical or surgical treatments. Laser treatments, cryotherapy and electrocautery are some of the surgical treatments offered for actinic keratosis. These kinds of surgery are recommended for severe cases. Non surgical treatments entail the application of keratosis removal cream.
Imiquimod, popularly by the trade names Aldara and Beselna can treat actinic keratosis. It’s under the immune response modifier kind of drugs. You need a doctor’s prescription to acquire this. The skin could look unpleasant during treatments and major discomforts could be experienced. But the result after the treatment is satisfying.
Efudex is a form of 5-flourouracil, an anti cancer drug. The drug is a topical cream also used for chemotherapy. Application of the cream with fingers is proposed instead of metal applicators. Swelling, pain and itch can occur on the treated area. In rare chances, discoloration of the skin and scars can occur. But these are just experienced during treatment. Before using the drug, your doctor must know if you are taking any other treatments. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding must not use Efudex. You should regulate sun exposure plus the use of sunscreens when using Efudex.
A medical recommendation is important before you go through any sort of treatment.
Seborrheic Keratosis
Seborrheic keratosis resembles actinic keratosis, but in this case, it could be waxy or greasy. It is also not as hazardous as AK since it is noncancerous. Keratinocytes on the upper layer of the epidermis are liable for this. The appearance of seborrheic keratosis contributes to its name “barnacles of old age. The true origin of this is still a mystery.
Seborrheic Keratosis Treatments
Treatments for actinic keratosis can also be used for seborrheic keratosis such as cryosurgery, laser and electrocautery. Electodessication and curettage is used for instances that are big enough.. Surgical excision employs a scalpel in removing the affected areas.
Once you have solved these skin problems, you have to take very good care of it to avoid further sun damage. These conditions can become worse if not taken care of properly.
