Recent diagnosis of Actinic Keratosis?

[Gjbrose]

Hi this follows problems with areas of skin on my face which I just wonder is a side effect of my RA medications as it’s due to sun damaged skin and I’ve always worn sun screen!!

Am aware that some medications increase your sensitivity to the uv rays of the sun anybody else have this skin problem ?

[Amnesiac3637]

I have recently had A/Ks on my face and I have RA (35 years’ worth) and I have been lax with sunscreen over the years but not now! Many of the RA drugs can increase the risk of skin cancer but not necessarily cause it and actinic keratosis is a pre-cancerous condition which is curable. Don’t know what drugs you’re on or how long for but I guess you’ve been referred to a dermatologist as you’ve been diagnosed with A/K.

Mine have completely cleared up with a couple of courses of Efudix (chemo in a tube) and check-ups from the dermatology team have been very reassuring. Hope yours go and keep on with the sunscreen - I’ve learned my lesson and I love the sun!

[BoneyC]

Yes, I've had a few areas of actinic keratosis on face, back of hand and upper arm. Treatment was with Efudix cream which worked well on most areas. Biopsies were taken on the others and Bowen's Disease dx and treated with cryotherapy which has worked.

Had RA since childhood, no SPF in the 1970's and over 45 years on MTX. Wasn't told about MTX and sun damage risks when I started it. My father also had skin cancer so could be combination of all of those.

[Sebastian247]

I had it extensively over my scalp. I was prescribed cream for it. It wasn't a very nice experience tbh and I had to apply it over two separate periods. But it did clear it up. I always wear a hat now. Cheers. Seb

[Gjbrose]

Thankyou for sharing your experiences I really appreciate it as I have been anxious to get it treated, the cream I was px was for once a day x 5 days and has got rid of one area but I have another area appearing on my chin, so have contacted my practice nurse.

[Ascidian]

Yes, I've just finished treatment with efudix for actinic keratosis on my face. I also have a possible melanoma on my arm, which is being removed next week. The dermatologist confirmed that my methotrexate has perhaps made me more sensitive to sunlight. I usually do use suncream, especially since being on mtx. However, I sometimes get caught out when it's cold, so I wear long sleeves, and then the sun comes out. Hope your treatment for the actinic keratosis is effective xx

[Sherlock11]

I have had many Actinic Keratosis (AK). I have also had Bowens and also 22 squamous cell skin cancers. It was thought to be a combination of being on azathioprine for 20 years, possible sun bathing and my colouring, fair skinned and auburn hair. I have regular monitoring and have access to plastic surgery if I notice anything and so far everything has been removed completely. I do not worry as I know I am being well taken care of.