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Actinic keratoses (solar keratoses)
Actinic keratoses (solar keratoses): Actinic keratoses (also called solar keratoses) are dry, scaly patches of skin that have been damaged by the sun. This clinic guide summarises recognised symptoms, assessment and care considerations.
Symptoms
The symptoms of Actinic keratoses (solar keratoses) can vary. Note the exact change, when it began, its severity, and what makes it better or worse.
Warning signs
Seek urgent in-person care for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, fainting, confusion, sudden weakness, uncontrolled bleeding or rapid deterioration.
For immediate danger, call Rescue 1122 or seek emergency care.
Possible causes
The cause of Actinic keratoses (solar keratoses) depends on the individual pattern and may involve health, inherited, environmental, medicine-related or lifestyle factors.
Risk factors
Risk factors for Actinic keratoses (solar keratoses) vary. A clinician may review age, family history, existing conditions, medicines and relevant exposures.
Diagnosis
A clinician assesses Actinic keratoses (solar keratoses) by reviewing the symptom pattern, timing, health history and examination findings. Similar conditions may need to be excluded before a diagnosis is confirmed.
Common tests / investigations
Tests for Actinic keratoses (solar keratoses) are selected after clinical assessment and may include targeted laboratory tests, imaging, monitoring or specialist review when appropriate.
General treatment overview
Care may involve a procedure or surgery. The plan depends on severity, cause, other conditions and current medicines.
Lifestyle guidance
Keep a symptom record, bring current medicines and reports to the consultation, and follow condition-specific activity, nutrition and self-care advice from the clinical team.
Prevention
Not every case of Actinic keratoses (solar keratoses) can be prevented. Early assessment and control of modifiable risk factors may reduce complications where relevant.
Related conditions
Related conditions are considered from the symptom pattern, medical history and clinical examination.
Medical references
Original general information informed by recognised medical sources. It does not replace individual physician assessment.