Actinic Cheilitis — NDEB AFK MCQ
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Correct answer: B — Chronic ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure
Actinic cheilitis (solar cheilosis) is a premalignant condition of the lower lip vermilion caused by chronic UV radiation exposure. It presents as dryness, scaling, crusting, and atrophy of the lower lip with blurring of the vermilion border. Histologically, it shows epithelial dysplasia with solar elastosis of the underlying connective tissue. The rate of malignant transformation to squamous cell carcinoma is approximately 6-10%. Outdoor workers and fair-skinned individuals are at highest risk. Sun protection and lip balm with SPF are preventive.
Reference: Neville – Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, 4th ed., 2016