Lentegí

Lentigo is a small pigmented spot on the skin with a clearly defined edge, surrounded by normal-appearing skin. It is a harmless (benign) hyperplasia of melanocytes which is linear in its spread. This means it is not a cancer and will not become a cancer. There are several types of lentigo, and they can be caused by sun exposure, aging, or may be present at birth.

Types of Lentigo

There are three main types of lentigo: simple lentigo, solar lentigo, and lentigo maligna.

• Simple lentigo is a small, brownish spot that can appear at any time in life. It is most commonly found on the trunk, arms, and legs.

• Solar lentigo, also known as liver spots or age spots, are flat, brown spots that appear on areas of the skin that have been exposed to the sun. They are common in older adults, especially those who have had a lot of sun exposure.

• Lentigo maligna is a type of melanoma that starts as a dark, flat spot and slowly darkens and enlarges. It is most common in older adults and is usually found on the face.

Causes

Lentigines are caused by an increase in the number of melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. This can be due to sun exposure, aging, or genetic factors.

Treatment

Treatment for lentigo depends on the type and can range from watchful waiting to surgical removal. Simple and solar lentigines do not require treatment unless they are cosmetically bothersome. Lentigo maligna, however, is a type of skin cancer and requires treatment, usually in the form of surgery.

Prevention

Prevention of lentigo primarily involves protecting the skin from the sun. This includes wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and avoiding the sun during peak hours.

A close-up image of a lentigo on the skin.

See also

• Melanoma
• Skin cancer
• Sunburn
• Freckle