Common benign and malignant tumours of the aging skin: Characteristics and treatment options

Abstract

The incidence of all types of malignant skin tumours, including both melanoma and non-melanoma types, has increased in recent decades, while basal cell carcinoma is the most common human malignancy in the Caucasian race. The aging of the skin is associated with an increase in both benign and malignant tumours. As the population ages and life expectancy extends, mostly in developed countries, dermatologists are likely to face growing numbers of patients seeking therapy for such abnormalities. It is primarily UV irradiation that is responsible for the development of skin cancers, although there are other risk factors, including air pollution and X-ray irradiation. Seborrhoeic keratosis, solar lentigo and other benign lesions, despite their harmless nature, may cause distress to patients, such as itching or aesthetic issues. This review article summarises the features of the most common benign and malignant lesions of aging skin.