Definition of Actinic keratosis

1. Noun. An overgrowth of skin layers resulting from extended exposure to the sun.

Generic synonyms: Keratosis

Definition of Actinic keratosis

1. Noun. (medicine) A lesion on the skin, typically on the upper portion of the head, characterized by discolored, thickened or scaly growths of keratin, caused by exposure to the sun; common in fair-complected people of a certain age. They are precancerous. ¹

¹ Source: wiktionary.com

Medical Definition of Actinic keratosis

1. A skin lesion that is abnormally sensitive to the effects of ultraviolet light (sunlight). Thought to be a precancerous skin lesion that is more common in the fair-skinned or elderly individual. Approximately 20% of these skin lesions will develop into squamous cell carcinoma. Prevention includes the use of sun screen agents and the avoidance of drugs (for example tetracyclines) known to cause photosensitivity reactions. Usually a discreet slightly raised, red or pink lesion located on a sun exposed surface. Texture may appear as rough, gritty or scaly. Growths may be biopsied to look for cancer or removed via cryotherapy or electrical cautery. Some topical agents may be used to promote peeling. (27 Sep 1997)

Lexicographical Neighbors of Actinic Keratosis

acting scrum-halves
acting up
actings
actinia
actiniae
actinian
actinians
actiniarian
actinias
actinic
actinic cheilitis
actinic conjunctivitis
actinic dermatitis
actinic granuloma
actinic keratitis
actinic keratosis (current term)
actinic prurigo
actinic radiation
actinic ray
actinic reticuloid
actinically
actinide
actinide elements
actinide series
actinides
actinidic
actinidic acid
actinidin
actinidine
actiniferous

Literary usage of Actinic keratosis

Below you will find example usage of this term as found in modern and/or classical literature:

1. Fluoride in Drinking Water: A Scientific Review of EPA's Standards by National Research Council (2006)
"(2001a) reported less than 3% systemic fluorouracil absorption in patients treated with 0.5% or 5% cream for actinic keratosis. A group of widely used ..."

2. Approved Drug Products with Therapeutic Evaluationsby DIANE Publishing Company by DIANE Publishing Company (1995)
"... TRIPHASIC REGIMEN U-67 METHOD OF INDUCING ANESTHESIA IN A WARM BLOODED ANIMAL U-68 TREATMENT OF actinic keratosis U-69 TREATMENT OF PNEUMOCYSTIS CARINII ..."

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