Identification of skin cancers 1: benign and premalignant lesions

Skin cancers are the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the UK, and their incidence is growing. They can present in all age groups, and are particularly common in older people, but the incidence among younger people is increasing. However, the majority of skin lesions are not malignant. In this, the first of two articles, the author discusses the range of common benign growths that can be mistaken for cancers, as well as the precancerous lesions that can become a cause for concern if untreated. The second article will examine the common malignant lesions.