Lentigenes - Symptoms and Treatment

Lentigines are flat brown-black spots that usually occur in sun-exposed areas. Although most frequently called liver spots , they are unrelated to the liver or liver function. The backs of hands and face are common areas. The lesions tend to increase in number with age, making them common among the middle age and older population. They can vary in size from 0.2 to 2 cm. These flat lesions usually have discrete borders, are dark in color, and have an irregular shape. These lesions are caused by a marked increase in the number of pigment cells located in the superficial layers of the skin. A biopsy should be considered if a lesion develops a highly irregular border, changes in pigmentation, or changes in the thickness to rule out cancer. Lentigines are usually benign therefore treatment is not necessary. For cosmetic purposes, some successful treatments include: cryotherapy, hydroquinone preparations (bleaching preparations), retinoids, chemical peels or lasers. Protective measures should be taken to avoid any excessive sunlight exposure. These include sunscreen and protective clothing, such as hats and long sleeves.

Speckled lentiginous nevus is a patch of hyperpigmentation that can be seen on any area of the body. Acral lentiginous melanoma is a subtype of melanoma initially described only two and half decades ago, but well-recognized by dermatologists today. Liver spots, also known as senile lentigines, are harmless patches of increased pigmentation that range from freckle-size to a few inches across. Lentigines are comman in those with fair skin but are frequently seen in those who tan easily have naturally dark skin. Liver spots, also called old age spots. Liver spots mostly appear in areas consistently exposed to sunlight, although they also are occasionally found on less exposed areas. Most people seek no treatment. Re-occurrence or appearance of new spots may be minimized by using a high-protection sunscreen lotion.

Causes of Lentigenes

Common Causes of Lentigenes :

• The cause of the Lentigines is unknown.

Symptoms of Lentigenes

Some common Symptoms of Lentigenes :

• Slow growth.
• Delayed puberty.
• Prominent ears
• Cafe-au-lait spots.
• Pectus excavatum.
• Wide-set eyes (hypertelorism) .

Treatment of Lentigenes

• Topical vitamin C treatment is effective for treating sun spots. Topical vitamin C works well when used in combination with alpha hydroxyacids.
• Liquid nitrogen therapy is the quickest way to get rid of lentigines. Liquid nitrogen is air that is so cold that it is in liquid form (-321ºF). The health care provider sprays the liquid nitrogen onto the age spot and this causes the mark to turn white a month or so after treatment. When liquid nitrogen is sprayed onto the skin, it can sting and may cause a permanent white spot or scar.
• Another treatment for lentigines is Retin-A . Retin-A cream is applied to the spots once a day for six months. This will cause lightening of large age spots and will make small ones disappear. Retin-A cream can be used in combination with alpha hydroxyacid.
• A broad-spectrum sunscreen may help to prevent further appearance and darkening of solar lentigines. Several creams may lighten lentigines if applied for a number of months. These include hydroquinone or antioxidants.

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