Age spots
Age spots, also known as liver spots or solar lentigines, are flat tan or brown marks ranging from two to thirty millimeters, characterized by well-defined borders. These spots typically arise from an increase in melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, due to chronic sun exposure. Commonly found on sun-exposed areas like the face, backs of hands, shoulders, and forearms, age spots are generally harmless and do not have malignant potential.
While no medical treatment is required, individuals may seek cosmetic solutions to lighten or remove these spots. Preventative measures, such as using sunscreen, are recommended to reduce the risk of developing new spots or darkening existing ones. Various treatment options are available for those who desire a cosmetic change, including liquid nitrogen cryotherapy, trichloroacetic acid, bleaching agents like tretinoin or hydroquinone, and laser therapy. Additional methods such as intense pulsed light therapy, dermabrasion, and chemical peels can also be performed by dermatologists or aestheticians.
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Subject Terms
Age spots
Also known as: Liver spots, solar lentigo
Anatomy or system affected: Skin
Definition: Benign lesions, also known as liver spots or solar lentigo, found on sun-exposed skin. Age spots are seen in more than 90 percent of Caucasians sixty-five years of age and older; they typically represent no immediate danger.
Causes and Symptoms
Age spots are flat tan or brown spots with well-defined borders between two millimeters and thirty millimeters in size. Occasionally, they can be slightly scaly or have a rough surface. Age spots are caused by a proliferation of normal melanocytes (the cells that produce melanin) in the epidermis as the result of chronic sun exposure. These lesions are commonly found on the face, especially the forehead and temples, the backs of the forearms and hands, and the shoulders and back. They are less commonly found on the trunk and legs. Age spots have no malignant potential.
Treatment and Therapy
No treatment is needed for age spots. Sunscreens and sun protection are usually advised because they help to decrease the rate of appearance and darkening of these lesions. Some older adults may seek treatment for cosmetic reasons. When treatment is sought, liquid nitrogen cryotherapy is usually used to lighten or remove the spots. This therapy is usually effective because melanocytes are more sensitive to cold than epidermal cells are. Trichloroacetic acid may also be used to lighten or remove age spots. Bleaching agents such as tretinoin (Retin A) or hydroquinone may lighten age spots slowly, usually over three to four months. The color will return, however, if the use of the bleaching cream is discontinued. Esthetic laser therapy is another option for treatment. It works by directing a specific wavelength of light that passes through the skin but is absorbed by the discolored area. The rapid absorption of light energy causes the lesion to retract. It is then removed by the body’s natural filter system. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis and typically without local anesthesia. Additional treatments for age spots include several other options available at dermatologists’ offices, as well as through aestheticians. Options include intense pulse light therapy that destroys the melanin-producing cells without causing damage to the skin’s surface, dermabrasion, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels.
Bibliography
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