Actinic Keratosis

Originally, I was diagnosed with having Granuloma Annulare (July, 2009).  After a few treatments with liquid nitrogen (monthly), it all but went away however, while those ring shaped specific marks were going away, some reddish raised bumps began to appear, more on one leg than the other.  The dermalogist diagnosed this as Actinic Keratosis.  Liquid nitrogen did not seem to be helping this.  She recommended PhotoDynamic Therapy (cost of 400.00) which I had Feb 11th, 2010.  I'm not sure it helped.  It helped smooth the right leg which had little of left of the Granuloma Annulare and very few red bumps from the other.  The left leg still has many red bumps/blotches.  For the "crusty" areas on my upper thighs and my forearms/backs of my hands, she has recommended I use Lac-Hydrin 12%.  I have been using that since Feb 11/10 twice daily and it does make those areas less crusty.
My question...should I be seeking a second opinion for the red bumps and blotches that have not gone from the one leg?  Should I simply be returning to same dermatologist to get more advice or treatment?  Should I be giving the PhotoDynamic Therapy a longer time to do it's thing?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Actinic keratosis is small, rough spot occurring on skin that has been chronically exposed to the sun. It can be diagnosed by examination and biopsy skin. I suggest you to get a biopsy skin done from a dermatologist so as to confirm the diagnosis.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.