Alternative Names solar lentigo, solar lentigines, senile lentigo, age spots
Definition Liver spots are flat brown patches of skin that occur in irregular shapes. They appear most commonly on the arms, face, and back of the hands.
What is going on in the body? Liver spots are caused by an increased number of pigment-producing cells in the skin. They are thought to occur in response to long-term sun damage. They are not harmful and do not represent cancer.
What are the signs and symptoms of the condition? The only symptom is the appearance of spots on the skin that create no itching or pain.
What are the causes and risks of the condition? Chronic sun damage is thought to cause liver spots. This condition does not cause any risk to the affected person.
What can be done to prevent the condition? Long-term sun protection, including the use of appropriate sunscreen products, can help prevent liver spots.
How is the condition diagnosed? Liver spots are diagnosed by their appearance.
What are the long-term effects of the condition? Liver spots cause no long-term effects.
What are the risks to others? This condition is not contagious and there is no risk to others.
What are the treatments for the condition? Treatment is not required, except for cosmetic reasons. Possible treatments include:
light acid treatment or liquid nitrogen, which are the most commonly used treatments
bleaching cream, which is generally used over several months
What are the side effects of the treatments? Sometimes scarring or excessive pigment loss occurs as a complication of treatment.
What happens after treatment for the condition? Methods of treatment that destroy the outer layer of skin create blisters and a fine peeling of the pigmented skin tissue. After recovery, persons can return to normal activities.
How is the condition monitored? No monitoring is required, except for cosmetic reasons.
Author: Lynn West, MD Reviewer: HealthAnswers Australia Medical Review Panel Editor: Dr David Taylor, Chief Medical Officer HealthAnswers Australia Last Updated: 1/10/2001 Contributors Potential conflict of interest information for reviewers available on request
