A digital manual for the early diagnosis of oral neoplasia
Actinic Cheiloses
Actinic Cheiloses represent actinic keratoses affecting the lip vermilion. The lip becomes dry, cracked, scaly, pale or white. Squamous epithelium of the lip vermilion may be hyperplastic or atrophic, and shows maturation disorder, varying degrees of keratinisation, cytological atypia and increased mithotic activities. Keratin may be accumulated and form surface plaque. The underlying connective tissue usually shows basophilic degeneration of collagen and elastosis . Squamous cell carcinoma may D in untreated cases. The diagnosis is confirmed by biopsy. Localized lesions are easily treated with cryotherapy or electrosurgery. Extensive lesions require carbon dioxide laser or scalpel vermilionectomy . Avoiding further exposure to the sun and close follow-up is recommended.
