What is true of actinic keratosis?

Actinic keratosis is indeed recognized as a precancerous condition. It typically develops due to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, commonly from the sun or tanning beds. These rough, scaly patches can appear on sun-exposed areas of the skin, and while they may not be cancerous themselves, they have the potential to evolve into squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated. This links closely to the need for monitoring and potentially treating actinic keratosis to prevent further complications.

The other options do not accurately represent key aspects of actinic keratosis. It is not something to dismiss lightly, as it poses a risk for skin cancer, nor is it related to hormonal imbalances or recognized as telangiectasia, which refers to visible small blood vessels on the skin's surface. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for anyone studying esthetics and skin conditions.