Lentigo is a pigment spot on the skin or mucous membrane caused by an accumulation of pigment cells. Lentigenes are light brown spots that, unlike freckles, do not disappear when the skin is not exposed to the sun. There are two main types of lentigenes; lentigo simplex and solar lentigo. Lentigo simplex occurs in childhood and is seen as uniform pigment spots. They are darker than freckles. Lentigo solare, which is often called liver spot in the vernacular, typically occurs on the face, upper back, chest and backs of the hands, which are the areas where we get the most sun throughout our lives. They can vary in size from 1 mm to a few centimeters. They do not become malignant and are of cosmetic importance. However, widespread solar lentigenes are a sign of sun-damaged skin, which in turn increases the risk of skin cancer.
Sun exposure and skin type determine how many solar lentigenes we get.
Most lentigo solare are not treated as they are benign. Freezing, where liquid nitrogen is sprayed on the stain, is the most common form of treatment. Sun protection and sunscreen with a high sun protection factor prevent the development of solar lentigo, but do not lead to the reduction of spots that have already appeared.
Our dermatologists help people of all ages, from newborns to the elderly, with everything from simple skin changes to serious conditions.
Our dermatologists help people of all ages, from newborns to the elderly, with everything from simple skin changes to serious conditions.
