Advanced Health Assessment Practice Exam

What is a common treatment approach for actinic keratosis?

1. Topical corticosteroids

2. Cryotherapy

3. Antifungal medications

4. Oral antibiotics

The correct answer is: Cryotherapy

The treatment of actinic keratosis often involves procedures that target the abnormal skin cells caused by sun exposure. Cryotherapy, which is the freezing off of the lesion with liquid nitrogen, is one of the most commonly used methods for treating actinic keratosis. This approach destroys the abnormal cells while preserving the surrounding healthy skin. Additionally, cryotherapy is quick, relatively simple, and effective, making it a preferred choice in many clinical settings. The technique promotes the formation of a new layer of skin and minimizes the risk of further skin cancer development, which is a critical consideration for patients with a history of sun damage. Other management strategies for actinic keratosis may include topical treatments like fluorouracil or imiquimod, but among the options provided, cryotherapy stands out as a widely accepted and practiced method.