Optimal treatment of actinic keratoses

imal treatment of actinic keratoses Review (1018) Total Article Views Authors: Uhlenhake EE Published Date January 2013 Volume 2013:8 Pages 29 - 35 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2147/CIA.S31930 Received: 30 October 2012 Accepted: 04 December 2012 Published: 14 January 2013 Elizabeth E Uhlenhake Department of Dermatology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA Abstract: The most compelling reason and primary goal of treating actinic keratoses is to prevent malignant transformation into invasive squamous cell carcinoma, and although there are well established guidelines outlining treatment modalities and regimens for squamous cell carcinoma, the more commonly encountered precancerous actinic lesions have no such standard. Many options are available with variable success and patient compliance rates. Prevention of these lesions is key, with sun protection being a must in treating aging patients with sun damage as it is never too late to begin protecting the skin.