Cryotherapy for Actinic Keratosis

What is Actinic Keratosis?

An actinic keratosis is a scaly, rough patch that develops on skin after long-term sun exposure. Because they develop slowly, it can take years for an actinic keratosis to fully develop. These patches typically form on the face, scalp, neck, lips, forearms and back of hands. Actinic keratoses can become cancerous, so doctors usually recommend having them removed as soon as possible. Cryotherapy is one of the most common methods of removal for this condition.

Benefits of Cryotherapy for Actinic Keratosis

Cryotherapy uses extreme cold, typically in the form of liquid or gaseous nitrogen, to freeze actinic keratoses and safely remove them. One of the best benefits of cryotherapy is that it's highly effective, making it the top treatment option for many health care professionals.

The procedure involves no cutting to remove skin patches, which is appealing for people who want to avoid invasive surgery. Cryotherapy is also a drug-free treatment, so it's a smart choice for those who can't take certain medications due to unpleasant or dangerous side effects.

Patients have two options for this treatment: localized cryotherapy and whole body cryotherapy.

Localized Cryotherapy for Actinic Keratosis

With localized cryotherapy, doctors target actinic keratoses by applying liquid nitrogen directly to the affected area. No special preparation is required, but patients may be asked to remove makeup if they are treating lesions on the face.

During localized cryotherapy, patients may experience some burning and stinging in areas where liquid nitrogen is applied. Pain typically subsides quickly once the procedure is complete.

Aftercare

It's common for the treated area to develop a blister and some swelling. This usually heals in seven to 10 days. Follow these tips to ensure proper healing and minimize the chance of scarring.

• Daily, wash the treated area with lukewarm water and gentle, fragrance-free soap.

• Do not use perfume, makeup, lotion or soap on the area until it's fully healed.

• Avoid covering the treated area with bandages. If bleeding occurs, apply gentle pressure with a clean gauze pad.

• Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the treated area to prevent crusts from developing.

• Cover the area with sunscreen after healing to prevent scars.

Whole Body Cryotherapy for Actinic Keratosis

During whole body cryotherapy, patients sit or stand in a closed chamber that's filled with extremely cold nitrogen gas. Chambers have glass walls and an alarm system that allows patients to stay in contact with a physiotherapist or technician throughout the entire procedure.

Patients do not need to do anything special to prepare for the procedure. They will be asked to remove most of their clothing, except for shorts or undergarments. Patients may also wear certain items to protect sensitive body parts from the cold. These include:

• Gloves

• Face mask

• Hat or ear muffs

• Socks

• Shoes

In whole body cryotherapy, patients start by entering a cold room with a temperature of around -60 degrees Celsius for 30 to 60 seconds. This is done to prepare the body for the primary phase of treatment. Next, patients move to a room with a temperature of about -100 degrees Celsius and stay there for several minutes.

The body reacts by releasing anti-inflammatory molecules and endorphins, having an effect that's similar to a "runner's high." Patients may experience improved mood and energy that can last for up to a few days post-treatment.

Many patients are able to successfully treat actinic kerotoses with just one session of whole body cryotherapy. In some cases, however, multiple sessions may be required.

Aftercare

Aftercare for whole body cryotherapy is similar to post-treatment procedures for localized cryotherapy. If blisters develop, do not puncture them, as broken blisters take longer to heal. Apply a silicone gel to seal wounds and encourage faster healing.

Some patients may develop a tension headache during or after treatment. This is triggered by the tensing of scalp muscles in response to extreme cold. Headaches can be treated with over-the-counter pain relievers, massage, a warm compress and rest.

Although rare, some patients may develop a condition called cold panniculitis, which manifests as a long-lasting rash on the skin. This is caused by freezing of the layer of fat beneath the skin. Cold panniculitis typically resolves on its own in two to three weeks. Patients should avoid further exposure to cold until the rash has fully faded.

Who Should Not Use Whole Body Cryotherapy?

Whole body cryotherapy offers promising results in treating actinic keratoses, but this treatment isn't right for everyone. People with the following conditions should avoid whole body cryotherapy and opt for localized treatments instead.

• Pregnancy

• Central nervous system disease

• Neuropathy in the hands or feet

• Poor blood flow

• Hypothyroidism

• Raynaud disease

• Unstable coronary artery disease

• Acute respiratory diseases

• Angina

• Heart valve disorders

• Open wounds and gangrenous lesions

• Mental disorders

Before undergoing whole body cryotherapy, patients should talk to their doctor to make sure this treatment is safe for them.