Pre-malignant skin lesions

Abstract

The incidence of pre-malignant skin disease has been rising in recent decades, with varying rates of progression to invasive disease. This article describes the most common forms of pre-malignant lesions: actinic keratoses, Bowen's disease, dysplastic naevi and melanoma-in-situ. We discuss their clinical significance and management. We also discuss the importance of early detection of malignant melanoma by long-term follow-up in high-risk patients.