How Do Doctors Diagnose Actinic Keratosis?
How Do Doctors Diagnose Actinic Keratosis?
Why It Matters
Diagnosing actinic keratosis accurately is crucial to prevent potential skin cancer. Learn how doctors identify these lesions.
Contents
- Visual Examination
- Skin Biopsy
Visual Examination
Doctors primarily diagnose actinic keratosis through a visual examination of the skin. They look for rough, scaly patches on sun-exposed areas. The appearance and feel of these lesions often provide enough information to make a preliminary diagnosis.
Skin Biopsy
If there's uncertainty about a lesion, a skin biopsy may be performed. In this procedure, a small sample of the skin is taken and examined under a microscope. This helps confirm the diagnosis and ensures that the lesion isn't more serious, like skin cancer.
FAQs
How is actinic keratosis diagnosed?
Actinic keratosis is diagnosed by a visual skin examination and sometimes a biopsy.
What is a skin biopsy?
A skin biopsy involves removing a small skin sample for microscopic examination.
Why might a biopsy be needed?
A biopsy may be needed to confirm the diagnosis or rule out skin cancer.
The Bottom Line
Accurate diagnosis of actinic keratosis is key to preventing serious skin issues.
Additional References
- Eisen DB, Asgari MM, Bennett DD, et al. Guidelines of care for the management of actinic keratosis. J Am Acad Dermatol 2021; 85:e209.
- de Berker D, McGregor JM, Mohd Mustapa MF, et al. British Association of Dermatologists' guidelines for the care of patients with actinic keratosis 2017. Br J Dermatol 2017; 176:20.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.