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Catch actinic keratosis early with a visit to an Algonquin dermatology specialist

Actinic Keratosis treatment, Illinois An estimated 58 million Americans have the common type of skin blemish known as actinic keratosis. This condition is sometimes called solar keratosis because it manifests as elevated dry, scaling patches on areas of chronically sun-damaged skin. Because it is triggered by ultraviolet rays, AK usually shows up on sun-exposed body parts – bald scalp, face, lips, and backs of hands. It is easy to ignore, but actinic keratosis is a precancerous condition. Algonquin dermatologist, Dr. Vikram Khanna, urges prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Actinic Keratosis AKs Video by Mallory Jones
Hi, I am Mallory. I'm one of the PAs at Dermatology specialists of Illinois, and I wanted to give you a little more info about a type of lesion we treat very commonly called actinic keratosis. AKs are precancerous lesions that we see from sun damage. So sun-exposed areas is most common. Face, scalp, or hands. We have a few different ways that we can treat them. Liquid nitrogen creams that can be done at home and like therapy, if not treated, they can turn into a more serious form of skin cancer called squamous cells. So ideally, we get 'em treated right away. They typically present as dry, red, scaly patches in those sun-exposed areas. Let us know if we can help you out with them.

Who is at risk?

People who with fair complexions have markedly increased risk of developing AK. Dr. Khanna explains the cause of actinic keratosis as, “Many Caucasian patients are born with little built-in sunscreen. Residents of our practice area are very outdoors-oriented. They are gardeners, boaters, golfers, fishermen, or simply work outdoors. This contributes greatly to the high numbers of patients in the area with actinic keratosis. Ultraviolet damage from tanning beds can also be a large contributing factor.”

The incidence of AK is somewhat higher in men, as they tend to be less consistent about wearing sunscreen and usually spend more time outside. It is important to note that while other ethnicities are not as susceptible, anyone can develop AK or skin cancer.

Early detection and treatment is vital

Actinic keratoses may be mistaken for warts, but they have the potential to develop into a serious type of cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. It is vitally important to seek accurate diagnosis from a dermatology specialist. If caught early, the chances of preventing skin cancer from developing are very good.

Dermatology Specialists of Illinois in Algonquin offers many tailored treatment options for actinic keratosis, including:
  • Excision
  • Curettage
  • Liquid nitrogen cryotherapy
  • Photodynamic therapy with blue light
  • Various prescription creams.
If you have a suspicious rough patch of skin, please don’t delay – call (844) 307-7546 right away.

Dermatologist Specialists of Illinois

Dr. Vikram "Vic" Khanna, M.D., is a board-certified dermatologist with over 20 years of expertise in dermatology. Educated at Northwestern University and trained at Feinberg School of Medicine and Case Western Reserve University, where he served as Chief Resident, Dr. Khanna combines extensive knowledge with practical skills. He is also board-certified in Mohs micrographic surgery, specializing in skin cancer treatments. Dr. Khanna's authoritative role as a Clinical Instructor at Northwestern University and his dedication to ongoing education underscore his commitment to advancing dermatological care. Known for his compassionate approach, he is trusted by patients and peers alike.   Connect with Dr. Vikram Khanna on Linkedin

Dr. Lauren Boshnick is a skilled dermatologist specializing in skin cancer, acne, psoriasis, and cosmetic dermatology. With an honors degree in Biology from the University of Western Ontario and a medical degree from the American University of the Caribbean, where she graduated salutatorian, Dr. Boshnick has achieved exemplary United States Medical Examination scores and received advanced training at prestigious institutions like Mayo Clinic and Oxford. Her dermatology residency at Florida State University, where she was chief resident, further solidified her expertise. Active in the AAD and dedicated to advancing skin care, Dr. Boshnick brings her extensive experience and passion for dermatology to the Northwest Suburbs community.   Connect with Dr. Lauren Boshnick on Linkedin

Dr. David Othman is a board-certified dermatologist and micrographic dermatologic surgeon with over a decade of experience in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. He holds a B.S. in Microbiology and an M.H.S.A. from the University of Michigan, as well as an M.D. from Northeast Ohio Medical University, where he received the Award for Excellence in Dermatology. Dr. Othman completed his dermatology training at Indiana University, serving as Chief Resident. He is a diplomate of the American Board of Dermatology and a fellow of the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery. Known for his commitment to patient care and trust, Dr. Othman actively contributes to the field through teaching and research.