Which skin condition is characterized by scaly patches that can fluctuate in size and often appears on sun-exposed areas?

The skin condition characterized by scaly patches that can fluctuate in size and often appears on sun-exposed areas is actinic keratosis. Actinic keratosis, also known as solar keratosis, is a precancerous skin condition resulting from prolonged sun exposure, leading to damage to the skin cells. The lesions typically present as rough, scaly patches that can vary in color and size, and they are often found on parts of the skin that receive the most sunlight, such as the face, ears, neck, scalp, and backs of the hands.

In this condition, the patches may feel dry or itchy and can occasionally flake off. It is important to monitor these lesions due to the potential for progression to squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated. The characteristic scaly appearance and their location on sun-exposed areas are key features that help distinguish actinic keratosis from other skin conditions.

While psoriasis can also present with scaly patches, it typically exhibits more pronounced inflammation and is less likely to be confined to sun-exposed areas. Seborrheic keratosis presents as raised, wart-like lesions that can vary in color but are not uniformly scaly nor directly related to sun exposure. Basal cell carcinoma, while