Actinic Keratosis and Bowen's Disease

Actinic keratosis and Bowen's diseases are both precursors to invasive squamous cell carcinoma. The major risk factor for both is ultraviolent radiation. The risk of progression from actinic keratosis into invasive squamous cell carcinoma ranges from less than 1% to 16%, while the risk for Bowen's disease is 3–5%. There are multiple treatment modalities for these precancerous lesions, but there is no standard of care. Thus, treatment should be directed based upon the location, size, age group, immune status, cost, and patient preference.