Keratosis exists in many different forms. The similarity between all forms of keratosis is simple. First of all the forms of keratosis that exist are all in the outermost layer of the skin. Very few forms of keratosis extend below this outer layer and if they do, they don’t go very deep. The other main similarity is that all forms of keratosis are made up of growths on the skin that are either flat, slightly raised or slightly submerged. This makes the forms of keratosis similar in terms of the procedures to treat or remove them almost entirely alike.
Keratosis treatments range from cosmetic fixes to permanent removal of the growths on the skin. Cosmetic treatments include the application of topical creams and moisturizer. These treatments only make the growths to appear better and reduce roughness to touch. They are mostly applied on the flat or almost flat typed of keratosis.
When the patient is interested in a more permanent solution to the keratosis growths, they then may choose between the several available options of treatment procedures. These procedures include invasive and non-invasive procedures depending on several factors. These factors involve the condition and state of advancement of the growths, potential future risks and finally the preferences of the patient.
One of the keratosis treatments involved is known as curettage. In this procedure, the doctor uses a tool to exfoliate the growth from the skin. When this treatment is used without other measures being taken, there is the potential for the growth recurring. This method is therefore best used together with another method such as electrocautery.
The second treatment is known as electrocautery. In this method an instrument is used that has a needle-like end. This end is provided with a low-voltage electrical charge. This electrical charge burns the growth and sometime after the procedure is carried out, the growth forms a scab and eventually falls off. This is an effective treatment and leads to little scarring after the wound has healed.
The third method is laser treatment where the keratotic growth is vaporized by use of a laser. This is a very effective treatment and it also leads to minimal scarring. It may cause hypopigmentation in darker skinned patients.
Surgery is another treatment for keratosis. It ensures that the growth is completely removed and is a good prevention against a recurrence of the growth. In cases where the keratosis has become cancerous, it may be used in addition to radiation treatment.
