Medical References
Diseases & Conditions
Women's Health
Mental Health
Men's Health
Medical Web Links
MOL Site Map
Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
Read more health news
Actinic Keratosis
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
- View All
Symptoms & Signs
What are the signs and symptoms of the condition?
The skin lesions of actinic keratosis start out as flat, scaly, red patches. These patches are seen on areas of the skin that are exposed to the sun. They are dry, horny, and rough. The lesions are often felt more easily than they are seen. Sometimes the lesions may be tender or cause itching.
The lesions grow slowly and range from 1/8 to 1/4 inch in diameter. They may go away and return at a later time. Over time, the lesions may change to wartlike white, hard crusts. Common locations for the lesions include: