If you're suffering from wart-like skin eruptions or itchy, patchy skin, you may have a form of keratosis. Keratosis is caused by an overgrowth of keratin, a fibrous insoluble protein that's the primary component of nails, skin and hair. Although some types of keratosis are harmless, other types can turn into skin cancer if left untreated. Consult a dermatologist to determine if your skin condition is a form of keratosis, and begin immediate treatment if you have a type of keratosis that may ultimately threaten your life.
Actinic Keratosis
Actinic keratosis, also known as solar keratosis, occurs from extended overexposure to the sun, says the National Skin Care Institute website. Symptoms include bumpy, wart-like blemishes that are generally red with a white top that occur on the upper chest, back of neck, scalp, face and ears. Actinic keratosis blemishes are usually 2mm to 6mm in diameter and can develop into skin cancer over time. Therefore, use sunblock and minimize your sun exposure to prevent actinic keratosis. Treatments for actinic keratosis include topical Aminolevulinic acid, Fluoracil and Imiquimod.
Seborrheic Keratosis
Seborrheic keratosis is a common skin growth that begins as a small, rough bump and thickens into a wart-like blemish. Seborrheic keratoses range from light tan to black in color, may be raised or flat and can grow from a fraction of an inch to larger than a half-dollar. Although seborrheic keratoses may be mistaken for warts or moles, their distinguishing feature is a waxy, pasted-onto-the-skin appearance. Seborrheic keratoses are found mainly on the back and chest but also appear on the neck, face and scalp. Most seborrheic keratoses are benign, or non health-threatening, and can be removed by surgical methods.
Keratosis Pilaris
Keratosis pilaris is a common, genetic skin disorder that causes painless, small, acne-like bumps along with rough patches on thighs, buttocks and arms, says MayoClinic.com. Keratosis pilaris is caused from a buildup of keratin in hair follicle openings and may cause itching. The different types of keratosis pilaris are keratosis pilaris rubra faceii, which are reddish rashes; kerotosis pilaris rubra, which are inflamed red bumps; and keratosis pilaris alba, which is bumpy, rough skin that causes irritation. Treatments for keratosis pilaris include topical application of alpha-hydroxy acids such as Lacticare or Aqua Glycolic and medicated creams such as Nutraplus, Ultra Mide and U-Kera.
Keratosis Follicularis
Keratosis follicularis, also known as Darier disease, is a rare genetic disease that causes wart-like blemishes on the upper arms, elbows, scalp, knees and forehead as well as nail abnormalities that include white and red-streaked nails. Keratosis follicularis usually manifests in affected people between 6 and 20 years old. Treatments for keratosis follicularis include moisturizers and dermabrasion, or removing the surface of the skin, and topical retinoids such as Retin-A, Differin Gel and Isotrex gel.
