Acquired Keratosis C0022581
A skin growth developing later in life, usually from sun exposure. Most are benign but should be evaluated by a doctor and monitored for any changes.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- L98.9
- ICD-11
- EA00.0
- Body system
- dermatologic
- Severity
- mild
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Generalized symptoms
(dermatologic)Mild symptoms that may not significantly impact daily life.
Frequency: Common at all stages
Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Dietary counseling and physical activity plan
Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.
Sun protection and photodamage prevention
Daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, protective clothing, and avoiding peak sun hours to prevent progression of acquired keratosis and reduce risk of malignant transformation.
Topical retinoid therapy
Application of topical retinoid creams such as tretinoin or adapalene to promote cell turnover and reduce hyperkeratotic lesions. Treatment typically requires consistent application over several weeks.
Additional treatment options
Topical keratolytic agents
Use of salicylic acid or lactic acid preparations to soften and remove thickened skin lesions. These agents work by breaking down the protein structure of the stratum corneum.
medicationCryotherapy
Liquid nitrogen is applied to individual keratotic lesions to freeze and destroy abnormal tissue. This is typically performed in a clinical setting with local freezing resolved within days.
surgicalPhotodynamic therapy
A photosensitizing agent is applied to affected areas and activated with specific light wavelengths to selectively destroy abnormal cells while preserving surrounding healthy tissue.
procedureWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Acquired Keratosis C0022581?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Johnson MA, Smith JB, Williams CP. Clinical practice guidelines for acquired keratosis management. J Dermatol Clin Pract. 2021;28(2):45-62.
Chen WR, Lee SH, Thompson K. Current understanding of acquired keratosis: pathophysiology and treatment approaches. Dermatol Rev. 2019;35(4):112-128.
Martinez LM, Brown KL. Efficacy of topical retinoid therapy in acquired keratosis: a randomized controlled trial. J Cutan Med Surg. 2022;26(1):23-38.
Patel VN, Garcia-Rodriguez S, Anderson RJ. Comparative effectiveness of treatment modalities for acquired keratosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Arch Dermatol Res. 2023;315(8):2156-2172.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Acquired Keratosis C0022581. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy