@cfbauer Like you, I have had the same things happen to me. In 2008 they removed a amelanotic [colorless] melanoma on my right forearm, resulting in 32 stitches. Before that it wasn't unusual for me to have actinic keratosis removed at every skin check, or a basal cell removal. I can recall all the way back to the late 80's.
Using fluorouracil cream does indeed pronounce the "hidden" keratosis spots. It freaked me out the first time it happened; I went running back to the dermatologist, since they hadn't told me about that side effect!
I have had several spots that were treated as actinic keratosis morph into squamous cell issues. The latest one is in the middle of my left eyebrow, treated with MOHS surgery. While it was treated for a couple years with the frozen nitrogen, that wasn't enough. Being very watchful, and knowing your own skin and conditions, is critical to good health. Two years ago MOHS surgery also was used to treat anodular basal cell skin cancer near my collarbone that had spread out below the skin surface, resulting in an interesting "J" shaped incision and scar.
Yep, wear your sunscreen all year around.
Ginger
Thank you Ginger.
You confirmed my suspicion ... "I have had several spots that were treated as actinic keratosis morph into squamous cell issues."
My new lesions are not like the former typical cold sores, so I will be extra vigilant from now on. I'll know more after my derm appointment. Historically, he has treated the lesions with cryotherapy.