Preparing for an appointment

You're likely to start by seeing your family doctor or primary care doctor. In some cases when you call to set up an appointment, you may be referred directly to a specialist in skin diseases (dermatologist).

What you can do

Your time with your doctor is limited, so preparing a list of questions will help you make the most of your appointment. For actinic keratoses, some basic questions to ask your doctor include:

• Are tests needed to confirm the diagnosis?
• What are my treatment options and the pros and cons of each?
• What will the treatments cost? Does medical insurance cover these costs?
• What suspicious changes in my skin should I look for?
• What kind of follow-up should I expect?

What to expect from your doctor

Questions your doctor may ask you include:

• When did you first notice the patches or spots?
• Have you noticed multiple patches or spots?
• Have you noticed any changes in the appearance of the affected skin?
• Is the condition bothersome?
• Have you experienced frequent or severe sunburns?
• How often are you exposed to sun or UV radiation?
• Do you regularly protect your skin from UV radiation?