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| Fig. 44.6 Typical actinic keratosis demonstrating scaly papule on an erythematous base. |
Actinic keratoses initially appear as tiny, palpable bumps on normal sun-exposed skin that gradually enlarge and become red and scaly (Fig. 44-6). The overlying scale may be extensive to the point that markedly exophytic cutaneous horns are produced. Less common variants include atrophic and pigmented actinic keratoses.
Actinic cheilitis is a term used for actinic keratoses that present on the sun-exposed vermilion lip. Many patients who complain of chronic dry lower lips actually have extensive actinic cheilitis.
