Actinic Keratisis is a precancer caused by accumulation of sun damage over time. These pre-cursors to squamous cell carcinoma are treatable, and they also indicate that measures are needed to protect your skin from further sun damage. Dermatologists of Birmingham offers treatment services and patient education for actinic keratosis for people living in Birmingham, Alabaster and surrounding areas in Alabama.
What is Actinic Keratosis?
Actinic keratosis are precancerous growths that can develop into squamous cell carcinoma. The lesions appears as red, rough, dry spots on the skin. You may have clusters of actinic keratosis or individual spots over a wider area. Having actinic keratosis is an indication that you need to be evaluated by a board-certified dermatologist.
Benefits of Actinic Keratosis Screening and Treatment
Actinic keratosis can be unsightly or cause troubling symptoms such as itching, burning, or bleeding. If left untreated, actinic keratosis may lead to squamous cell carcinoma . For all these reasons, the physicians at Dermatologists of Birmingham recommend thorough removal when found.
How Do I Know If I Have Actinic Keratosis?
Lesions of actinic keratosis may appear as:
- Red, rough lesions or patches of skin
- Dry, dehydrated lips that do not respond to at-home remedies, such as lip balm
Actinic keratosis typically occurs on chronically sun exposed areas such as the head, face and arms, but can develop on any part of the body that is significantly unprotected against sun exposure.
What to Expect from an Actinic Keratosis Screening and Treatment
Our dermatologists are trained to see and diagnosis actinic keratosis during all skin exams. Testing is generally not necessary. Treatment generally involves in-office procedures or at-home topical medications. Your dermatologist may recommend:
- Cryosurgery
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT)
- Topical medications
- Fraxel® Laser Treatment
The goal of these treatments is to remove the precancerous growths and prevent the development of squamous cell carcinoma.
How Much Does an Actinic Keratosis Screening and Treatment Cost in Birmingham?
Actinic keratosis screening and treatment may be covered by your insurance. We review coverage and out-of-pocket expenses after the consultation appointment. Our payment options include cash, checks and major credit cards. If you need to make affordable monthly payments for your actinic keratosis screening and treatment, you may qualify for our financing options.
If you find small, scaly, red patches on your skin, it may be a sign of actinic keratosis, which is a pre-cursor to skin cancer. Contact us today to schedule a personal consultation and an actinic keratosis screening with one of our board-certified dermatologists.
*Individual results may vary. The content on this website is for informational purposes only and does not replace the advice of a qualified physician.