A lentigo is a patch of darker skin, usually due to exposure to sunlight, most commonly on the face or hands - but occasionally on non-sun exposed areas.
Also known as
Lentigines, age spot, liver spot, freckle, solar lentigo, actinic lentigo
Symptoms and signs
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Irregular-shaped tan or brown patches on the skin, usually with well-defined edges
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The surface of a lentigo can be smooth or rough
Risk factors
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Long-term sun exposure
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Fair skin
Prognosis / outcome
Solar lentigines are harmless and do not lead to skin cancer. Treatment is not medically required, but may be desired for cosmetic purposes.
Progression
Some lentigines become raised and develop into a seborrhoeic keratoses (thickening of the top layer of skin). Occasionally solar keratoses become inflamed and develop into a lichenoid keratosis, which then resolves.
Procedures for
Lentigo
Medications for
Lentigo
Prevention of
Lentigo
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Avoid excessive ultraviolet radiation: protective clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, etc. To reduce the risk of solar lentigines , sunscreen should be worn every day, not just on days where the ultraviolet index is moderate or high.
More information
News / blog articles
Recommended web links
Solar lentigo
DermNet NZ
Description and multiple images of solar lentigines
Date accessed:
23 Jul
2021
BBL Hero
Sciton Australia
Information about the BBL Hero broad band light system including before and after photos
Date accessed:
4 Jul
2021
Pictures
Clinical images of
Lentigo
Click on an image to view it in greater detail.
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References
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