Abstract

Background.The prevalence of nonmelanoma skin cancer in the United States is alarming. It can be most appropriately treated if the earliest manifestation of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma is recognized. Methods.Clinical, histologic, and molecular biology considerations were reviewed to determine whether actinic keratosis is the earliest clinical manifestation of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Results.The clinical, histologic, and molecular parameters of actinic keratosis are those of squamous cell carcinoma. Conclusion.Actinic keratosis does not transform, convert, or progress into cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma but is the earliest clinically recognizable manifestation of this malignancy.