Actinic Cheilitis
Pronunciation: ak-TIN-ik ky-EYE-tis
A potentially malignant disorder of the lip vermilion caused by chronic cumulative ultraviolet radiation exposure, characterised by atrophy, blurring of the vermilion border, and surface crusting.
Full Definition
Actinic cheilitis (also called actinic keratosis of the lip) develops predominantly on the lower lip, which receives greater UV exposure than the upper lip. Histologically it shows epithelial dysplasia, solar elastosis of the subepithelial connective tissue, and hyperkeratosis. Clinically the vermilion border becomes indistinct and the surface may exhibit diffuse pallor, scaling, erosions, or crusting. Because of its malignant potential, it is classified alongside other potentially malignant disorders. Editors should note that 'actinic' (relating to UV radiation) must not be confused with 'chronic' or conflated with 'acanthosis'.
Usage
Usage note: Spell 'actinic' not 'actenic' or 'acanthic'. Do not conflate with angular cheilitis, which has an infectious/nutritional aetiology and affects the commissures rather than the vermilion.
In Context
- "The manuscript noted a loss of the demarcation between vermilion and skin, a hallmark of actinic cheilitis in outdoor workers." — Journal article
- "Actinic cheilitis was distinguished from angular cheilitis in the differential diagnosis table by its bilateral lower-lip predilection and UV aetiology." — Differential diagnosis table