Actinic Keratosis In Naperville, IL

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What is Actinic Keratosis?

Actinic Keratosis is a common precancerous skin condition primarily caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. These lesions appear as small, red, or pink-colored spots with a rough sandpaper-like texture. Actinic keratoses tend to be more easily felt than seen, as they can be accompanied by a rough or gritty sensation when running a finger over the affected skin. They are considered precancerous because there is a risk that a small percentage of these lesions may progress to squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer. It is important to detect and treat them early to prevent any progression.

How is Actinic Keratosis Treated?

Actinic Keratosis is commonly treated with various methods to eliminate or manage the lesions and reduce the risk of progression to skin cancer. The choice of treatment depends on factors such as the number of lesions, their location, and the patient's overall health. Your provider will begin with dermoscopy, which is a non-invasive technique to evaluate the skin lesions to determine the treatment plan for you. Some treatment options include:

In-office Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy involves using liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy the abnormal cells in AK lesions.

Topical Prescription Medications: Topical medications like imiquimod, fluorouracil (5-FU), or diclofenac are applied directly to the affected skin. These medications work to destroy or induce the immune system to eliminate abnormal cells with the AK lesions.

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT): PDT involves the application of a photosensitizing agent, such as aminolevulinic acid (ALA) or methyl aminolevulinate (MAL), to expose the AK lesions. After a specified incubation period, the treated areas are exposed to a specific wavelength of light. This light activates the photosensitizer, leading to the destruction of targeted cells.

I have been a patient of Oak Dermatology for years . I just had a recent surgery and once again the team was outstanding .The care is exceptional and the treatment by staff is admirable. You are treated with respect and appreciation. I would not consider going anywhere else .

T.S. Google

The staff at Oak Dermatology were incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, putting me at ease throughout my entire experience, from discussing my concerns with an eczema specialist to receiving personalized treatment options. From the initial consultation to the follow-up appointments, the entire team was warm, welcoming, and dedicated to addressing my specific skin care needs.

S.L. Google

Wonderful, kind, and sweet Dr.

J.S. Google

It terrified me to get a skin cancer diagnosis on my toe! My Podiatrist referred me to Surgeon Dr. Ashish Bhatia. From the time I first walked into the exam room I was treated with empathy and respect. Being prepped by PA Megan a 16 year associate of Dr. Bhatia was wonderful. Dr. Bhatia was amazing. He was kind and explained every step of the way what procedure they were going to do. He talked to me throughout the entire process to keep my nerves at bay. I was bandaged and sent to the waiting room for over 2 hours while the first layer was examined. Then it was back for round two. This time NA Faith was assisting. She was great and gentle reassuring me the whole time. Another layer and again I was bandaged and back to the waiting room for more tissue to be diagnosed this time about 1 1/4 hours. Back to the exam room with NA Faith where I was pronounced cancer free!! Now more fun by younger Dr. Bhatia no relation who is interning who applied several layers of skin graft. Might as well double it up since he said it was very expensive. It was a precision job to do it but it's in place. Then the final bandaging by NA Faith with an appointment back to my Podiatrist for possible plastic surgery. They advise you that you will be spending the day there. 7 hours later they were correct. I left the office with love and respect for everyone that was part of my team. I more than ever agree that 5 stars aren't enough for the wonderful care I received. I would recommend Oak Dermatology for everyone that needs their service. Thank you Staff you are the greatest.

V.R. Yelp

Oak dermatology is an amazing practice. Dr. Bhatia has done two skin cancer removals for me and the results are incredible. He is very thorough, knowledgeable, patient and caring. His expertise is shown during the procedure as I experienced no discomfort with the numbing. The end result of both excisions are amazing! I would highly recommend Dr. Bhatia and I am so fortunate to have him as part of my healthcare team!

M.A. Google

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Are there at-home methods for actinic keratosis?

At-home medicines cannot double for expert supervision for your actinic keratosis; however, they can stop it from worsening or reoccurring after medical care. Some guidelines to help stop and remedy actinic keratosis at home involve limiting sun exposure, applying sunscreen, and eating foods strong in nutrients. Individuals may also thrive from wholesome products like apple cider vinegar, virgin coconut oil, tree oil, and green tea.

Can actinic keratosis come back following treatment?

A good number of occurrences of actinic keratosis can be improved and cured after undergoing professional supervision, such as cryotherapy or laser surgery. It may take as long as three months after therapy for your actinic keratosis to fade. In less common circumstances, the lesion can persist and needs to be tested and medicated once more.

What is the importance between actinic keratosis and seborrheic keratosis?

Although actinic keratosis produces rough or scaled skin nodules because of sun damage, seborrheic keratoses are similar to a mole. They are typically tan or brown in color and spherical or elongated in shape. They could routinely emerge as if they have been fused to the skin similar to a sticky label, while actinic keratosis might have a sensation of a rough area of skin. To confirm the kind of keratosis you are experiencing, you should speak to a Prestige Cosmetic Dermatology specialist who can give you a definitive conclusion.

*Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary from person to person. Images may contain models.