Also known an actinic keratosis, a solar keratosis is a scaly skin growth caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight. The growths typically appear on the face, ears, hands, and bald parts of the scalp. They have a rough texture and may be sore or itchy. Sometimes, a solar keratosis may develop into squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer.
Some keratoses may simply need to be monitored, and any changes should be checked by a doctor.
However, if they are troublesome or may become cancerous, they may be removed by freezing or scraping them off; by using a special cream or gel; or by using a type of light treatment called photodynamic therapy.

Othere related diseases

ECZEMA AND DERMATITIS
Contact dermatitis Dyshidrotic eczema (pompholyx) Seborrheic dermatitis Both eczema and dermatitis are terms that refer to an inflammation of the skin, which...

ERYSIPELAS
Erysipelas is a bacterial infection of the upper layers of the skin, usually as a result of bacteria entering through a break in the skin—for example, from a ...

FUNGAL NAIL INFECTION
Known medically as onychomycosis, fungal nail infections cause the nails to become discolored, thickened, distorted, and brittle. Affected nails may also cause ...

HEAD LICE
Head lice are tiny insects that live in hair and lay eggs (nits) on the base of hairs. Head lice are harmless, but their bite causes intense itching. They can b...

HEMANGIOMA
A hemangioma is a birthmark caused by abnormal blood vessels under the skin. Types of hemangioma include stork marks (small, flat, pink or red patches); strawbe...

IMPETIGO
Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection, common in children, that usually occurs around the chin, mouth, and nose. The condition is highly contagious and is spre...

INGROWN TOENAIL
An ingrown toenail occurs when one or both edges of the nail curl under and grow into the adjacent skin. This often causes the skin to become inflamed and painf...

INTERTRIGO
Intertrigo is inflammation of the skin due to two surfaces rubbing together. It often affects skin under the breasts, between the thighs, in the armpits, or bet...