Precancerous Skin Lesions
Detect and treat precancerous skin changes with a specialized dermatologist at Derma Medical Clinic Zurich - Sihlcity
Precancerous Skin Lesions
Have chronic abscesses and painful nodules clarified and treated by an experienced dermatologist at the Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich - Sihlcity
Early detection, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up – all in one place
Prevent skin cancer: With a thorough skin screening and digital imaging, we distinguish between harmless skin changes and those that need treatment at Derma Medical Clinic.
Examinations
Digital full-body skin screening
Dermatoscopy
Process
Personal consultation
Skin inspection
Evaluation of skin changes
Duration
a few minutes to 2.5h
What is a precancerous skin lesion?
A precancerous skin lesion, medically called actinic keratosis, is a skin change that can develop due to many years of sun exposure.
Typical signs:
- rough, scaly skin areas
- slightly hardened or crusty spots, often found on sun-exposed skin areas like the face, scalp, chest, hands, or forearms
If left untreated, these changes can develop into a type of non-melanoma skin cancer (squamous cell carcinoma) over months or years.
A check and treatment for precancerous skin lesions is important if you…
- have chronically rough or scaly skin areas that don’t heal
- have experienced strong or long-term sun exposure on your skin
- have already had precancerous lesions or skin cancer treated
- want to protect your skin early and prevent skin cancer
Even if you have no known risk factors, we recommend regular check-ups for early skin cancer detection, especially from age 35.
What happens during an examination for a precancerous lesion – also called actinic keratosis?
During a skin examination at Derma Medical Clinic, your skin is carefully checked using a special skin magnifier (dermatoscope). This allows us to see details that are not visible to the naked eye.
We also take high-resolution full-body images to document and track any skin changes over time.
A computer-assisted analysis using artificial intelligence helps us to evaluate even subtle skin changes safely.
What if something stands out?
At Derma Medical Clinic we carefully distinguish between harmless skin changes and precancerous lesions.
Depending on the findings, we choose the appropriate treatment:
Freezing treatment (cryotherapy)
Small actinic keratoses can often be removed quickly and effectively using cryotherapy.
Laser therapy
Targeted lasers are used to gently remove hardened skin layers.
Photodynamic therapy (PDT)
A special cream and light therapy are combined to target and remove damaged skin cells.
Treatment with medical creams
In early stages of actinic keratosis, special creams may be used.
How does the treatment work?
Personal consultation and risk assessment
We discuss your skin health, any changes you’ve noticed, past findings, and your individual risk.
Full-body skin examination
Your entire skin is examined using a special magnifier. If needed, we add digital imaging and AI analysis.
Evaluation and diagnosis
Suspicious areas are documented and carefully assessed.
In unclear cases, we may take a small skin sample in our own operating theatre.
At Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich-Sihlcity, examinations and treatments for precancerous skin lesions are performed only by experienced specialists:
- Benjamin Miller, specialist in dermatology and phlebology
- Markus Dendorfer, specialist in dermatology with focus on pediatric dermatology
Both have extensive experience in early skin cancer detection and modern, gentle treatments.
Dr. Benjamin Miller
Board-certified Specialist in Dermatology and Venereology FMH
Dr. med. Markus Dendorfer
Board-certified Specialist in Dermatology and Venereology FMH
What to expect at our clinic
Precise skin diagnostics
Examination using a special skin magnifier (dermatoscope), digital skin imaging, and – if needed – tissue samples and removal of suspicious skin lesions in our operating theatre.
Personalized treatment planning
Depending on your condition, we offer the suitable treatment – from freezing or laser therapy to photodynamic therapy (PDT).
Gentle techniques
Many precancerous changes can be treated without surgery, in a gentle way that preserves your skin’s natural look.
Complete care from one source
Diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up take place right here – no long waits or referrals needed.
Private recovery area (if needed)
For procedures that require longer observation, a private and discreet recovery area is available.
Noticing rough, scaly, or thickened skin areas – especially in sun-exposed areas?
Book your appointment now for a skin cancer screening at Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich - Sihlcity.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Precancerous Skin Lesions
What is actinic keratosis?
Actinic keratosis is a skin change caused by long-term sun exposure.
It is considered a potential precursor to non-melanoma skin cancer (squamous cell carcinoma) and should be detected and treated early.
How can I recognize a precancerous skin lesion?
Typical signs include rough, scaly patches of skin, often red or skin-colored, that do not heal.
It usually occurs on sun-exposed areas – like the face, scalp, ears, and hands.
Is actinic keratosis dangerous?
Yes. Without treatment, actinic keratosis can develop into non-melanoma skin cancer.
Early diagnosis and treatment are therefore important.
Does a precancerous lesion always need treatment?
Yes. Even small or barely visible areas should be checked and treated by a doctor to prevent the development of skin cancer.
How is a precancerous lesion treated?
Depending on severity, different treatments are available:
- Freezing (cryotherapy)
- Laser therapy
- Treatment with special creams
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT)
Which treatment is best for actinic keratosis?
The best treatment depends on the number, size, and location of the spots.
Your dermatologist will recommend the most suitable solution for you.
Can actinic keratosis return after treatment?
Yes. If you continue to get sun exposure, new actinic keratoses may appear.
That’s why regular skin checks and sun protection are important.
How can I prevent precancerous lesions?
Avoid intense sun exposure, always use sunscreen with a high SPF, and protect exposed skin with clothing and hats.
