Actinic Keratosis Color Associated With Vasculature and Inflammation

Actinic keratoses (AKs) that appear pinker and redder in color are associated with more inflammation and vasculature.

Researchers analyzed the clinical, dermoscopic, and histopathologic features of AKs to determine the associations between color, vasculature, and inflammation in a retrospective study. Patients diagnosed with AK between January 2018 and October 2019 were identified, and the clinical and dermoscopic photographs and pathology slides for all included patients were reviewed.

White AKs demonstrated scale and absence of erythema and inflammation. Brown AKs showed pseudonetwork, absent scale, and a variable vessel pattern. They also revealed pigment incontinence and no inflammation. Red AKs had a distinct polymorphous vessel pattern and erythema was present. Histopathology showed increased vascularity and variable inflammation. Pink AKs showed erythema and inflammation.

“This report adds to our understanding of AKs and confirms that, in general, the pinker or redder the AK, the more prominent the inflammatory infiltrate and vasculature, respectively,” concluded the study authors. “Dermatologists should continue to use their diagnostic skills to successfully diagnose and triage AKs,” they added.

Reference
Labadie JG, Compres E, Sunshine JC, et al. Actinic keratosis color and its associations: a retrospective photographic, dermoscopic, and histologic evaluation. Dermatol Surg. Published online November 15, 2021. doi:10.1097/DSS.0000000000003281