What serious indicator of sun damage appears as rough, scaly patches risk developing into squamous cell carcinoma?
Answer
Actinic keratoses (AKs)
Actinic keratoses (AKs) are recognized as perhaps the most serious visual indicator resulting directly from accumulated sun damage. These lesions present externally as rough, scaly patches on chronically exposed skin areas. Critically, AKs are considered precancerous lesions; if left untreated, they carry a distinct risk of progressing into a more serious form of skin cancer known as squamous cell carcinoma. Addressing these lesions is a primary concern for dermatologists, as they represent a physical manifestation of significant cellular injury from UV exposure, unlike pigmentation issues or vascular damage which are typically cosmetic concerns.
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