Pigmented actinic keratosis: Case report

Abstract

Actinic keratosis is a lesion induced by ultraviolet radiation that may develop into invasive squamous cell carcinoma.¹ The pigmented actinic keratosis condition was first described in 1978 by James et al. Since then, this type of actinic keratosis has attracted attention due to the differential clinical diagnosis.³ Report a case of pigmented actinic keratosis, demonstrate the importance of thorough physical examination and diagnosis of a lesion of potential cutaneous neoplastic transformation that has common differential diagnoses. A 71, male patient, phototype II. On physical examination, he presented a brownish hyperchromic plaque with rough surface, measuring approximately 0.5 cm, located in the right temporal region. Dermatoscopy with brownish granules around some hair follicles and telangiectasia. Incisional biopsy (punch) resulted in pigmented actinic keratosis. On return, 3% diclofenac+2.5% hyaluronic acid was prescribed for twice daily use. The physician should be alert to aspects that go beyond patient complaints. The patient's case history, the general physical examination and the dermoscopy of the lesion were important so that the confirmed biopsy diagnosis was not neglected and the appropriate treatment was instituted.