Actinic Keratosis may progress to malignant lesions if untreated. Which term best describes Actinic Keratosis?

• A. Benign lipid lesions
• B. Premalignant growths
• C. Viral infection
• D. Well-defined elevated plaque

Answer: (B)

Actinic keratosis is a sun-damage–related lesion that can progress to cancer if left untreated, so it’s best described as a premalignant growth. It forms rough, scaly patches on sun-exposed skin and carries a risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma over time. The other options don’t fit: benign lipid lesions refer to conditions like xanthomas, a viral infection would be warts or similar infections, and a well-defined elevated plaque describes appearance but not the cancer risk inherent to actinic keratosis.