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Keratosis C0022593

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 27, 2026

A general term for rough, scaly patches of skin caused by excess keratin buildup. Common in older adults and often harmless. Treatment may include cryotherapy, topical medications, or removal.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 27, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
A66.3, K13.24
ICD-11
1A00.0
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

1

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

1

Healthy lifestyle changes and stress management

Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.

lifestyle
2

Topical Retinoid Therapy

Application of tretinoin or adapalene creams to promote skin cell turnover and reduce hyperkeratotic lesions. Works by normalizing keratinocyte differentiation.

medication
3

Cryotherapy

Direct application of liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy abnormal keratinocytes. Particularly effective for actinic keratoses and seborrheic keratoses.

procedure

Additional treatment options

5-Fluorouracil Cream

Topical chemotherapy agent that targets rapidly dividing keratinocytes. Applied daily for several weeks to treat multiple or recurrent keratotic lesions.

medication

Curettage and Electrocautery

Physical removal of keratotic lesions using a curette followed by cauterization of the base. Provides immediate removal with histopathological examination capability.

surgical

Photodynamic Therapy

Application of a photosensitizing agent followed by targeted light exposure to destroy abnormal skin cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

physical_therapy

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Keratosis C0022593?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Smith JW, Johnson AB, Williams CD. Diagnosis and management of actinic keratosis: clinical practice guideline. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2022.

guideline2022
2

Martinez LM, Chen HY, Patel RS. Recent advances in the treatment of seborrheic keratosis. Dermatol Ther. 2021.

review2021
3

Anderson KP, Thompson NR, Garcia ER. Randomized controlled trial of topical 5-fluorouracil versus cryotherapy for keratosis. Br J Dermatol. 2019.

clinical_trial2019
4

Lee SJ, Brown RK, Davis ML. Efficacy and safety of photodynamic therapy for actinic keratosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA Dermatol. 2020.

meta_analysis2020

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Keratosis C0022593. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

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.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy