Under the midnight sun: A case of actinic keratoses in an avid Inuit fisherman

SAGE Open Medical Case Reports 2026 Open access

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Authors: Meghan Kanou, William Chow, Chenrui Xie, Arafat Atique, Ivan V. Litvinov
DOI: 10.1177/2050313x251401014
Cited by: 1
References: 3

Abstract

We report the case of a 74-year-old Inuit man from Kangiqsualujjuaq, Quebec, with a 10-year history of persistent facial skin changes, reported as "dry skin." Examination revealed violaceous scaly papules on sun-exposed areas that had sandpaper texture on palpation. The patient, with no significant medical history, spends extensive time outdoors in a subarctic environment. A diagnosis of actinic keratoses was made. This case highlights the need to recognize atypical presentations of actinic keratoses in patients with darker skin phototypes and high environmental ultraviolet exposure. Topical 5% fluorouracil was initiated.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer Studies Skin Protection and Aging Cutaneous Melanoma Detection and Management

Publication details

Journal / source
SAGE Open Medical Case Reports
Publisher
SAGE Publications
Volume
14
Pages
2050313X251401014–2050313X251401014
Publication date
1 January 2026
Language
EN