There are a series of frequent lesions, especially in areas of exposure (face), that begin to appear during old age and that in most cases are prior to an epidermal skin cancer: Actinic Keratosis.
It is very important to remember that the most frequent skin cancers are epidermal carcinomas and malignant melanoma and that both are induced by ultraviolet radiation from sunlight.
Another important factor is the clear phototype of the person, which is genetically determined. People who are exposed more often to the sun for leisure or because of their profession (sailors, farmers, bricklayers…) are more prone to develop these lesions.
Actinic Keratosis (Keratomas)
These precancerous lesions are mostly seen on the face in older people in the form of crusty lesions that bleed easily. They must be treated immediately, otherwise they may progress to skin cancer.
For this purpose, cryotherapy, electrocoagulation or topical cytostatics are used, depending on the characteristics of the lesion and the degree of development. Occasionally, Actinic Keratosis manifests itself in the form of a cutaneous horn.
Chronic Radiodermatitis and Radiation necrosis
Old chronic lesions can degenerate into squamous cell carcinoma and to avoid this, they should be surgically removed as soon as possible. Also old scars or burns can evolve and develop precancerous lesions, so it is very important to remove them immediately.
Leukoplakia
These are white fissured or erosive lesions in the mouth that can degenerate into carcinoma. They are caused by continuous rubbing against teeth in poor condition or by keeping a cigarette resting on the lips. Not to be confused with leukoplakia, which is equivalent to a callus in the mouth.
These lesions must be properly treated, otherwise their evolution to carcinoma may be inevitable.
Erythroplasia
This is a reddish lesion of the genital mucosa, both male and female, which can also degenerate into carcinoma. It should not be confused with Plasmacytic Balanitis, although they have a similar appearance.