Actinic keratoses

Are actinic keratoses considered skin cancer?

Yes, actinic keratoses are considered today to be an early stage of a non-melanoma form of skin cancer (squamous cell carcinoma). They occur in the topmost skin layer and therefore do not form any metastases in other organs.
Early treatment is important to prevent them becoming a malignant form of skin cancer.

Do actinic keratoses have to be surgically removed?

Your doctor will determine the best method of treatment individually with you. In addition to surgical procedures, gels and creams are also available nowadays for the treatment of actinic keratoses.

Are actinic keratoses as dangerous as melanoma skin cancer?

No, actinic keratoses belong to the so-called non-melanoma forms of skin cancer. These are more frequent than melanoma but are not as aggressive. Actinic keratoses are restricted to the topmost skin layer and do not form any metastases. Nevertheless, actinic keratoses should be treated to prevent them becoming a malignant form of non-melanoma skin cancer.