Introduction
Pre-cancerous skin lesions, such as actinic keratosis (AK), are patches of abnormal skin cells that can potentially develop into skin cancer if left untreated. These lesions are often caused by prolonged sun exposure and are common in fair-skinned individuals or those with a history of sunburns. At Atlanta West Dermatology, we specialize in diagnosing and treating pre-cancerous skin lesions before they progress to full-blown skin cancer.
Benefits
Prevention of skin cancer by removing or treating pre-cancerous lesions early.
Protection of your skin's health and reducing the risk of future complications.
Minimally invasive treatments with quick recovery times.
Expert care by dermatologists experienced in identifying and managing pre-cancerous lesions.
Procedure Details
Treatment for pre-cancerous lesions may include:
Cryotherapy (freezing) to destroy abnormal cells.
Topical treatments like imiquimod or 5-fluorouracil creams.
Laser therapy for surface-level lesions.
Surgical removal if the lesion is larger or persistent.
The treatment choice depends on the lesion's size, location, and severity.
Recovery & Results
Recovery times vary based on the type of treatment used. For example:
Cryotherapy may cause temporary redness, scabbing, or swelling, which will heal within 1-2 weeks.
Topical treatments may cause mild irritation or peeling.
Surgical removal will require stitches and a longer recovery period.
Most patients see complete healing within 2-4 weeks.
Who is a Good Candidate?
People with a history of prolonged sun exposure or frequent sunburns.
Those with fair skin or a family history of skin cancer.
Individuals who have noticed rough, scaly patches on their skin that don't heal.
Can pre-cancerous lesions be prevented?
While they can’t always be prevented, reducing sun exposure and wearing sunscreen daily can lower your risk.
Are pre-cancerous lesions always dangerous?
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