Definition
- Solar lentigo is a harmless patch of darkened skin.
- Results from exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation
- causes local proliferation of melanocytes and accumulation of melanin within the skin cells (keratinocytes)
Incidence
- Solar lentigos or lentigines are very common
- Especially in people over the age of 40 years
Management
- If left untreated, solar lentigo will most likely persist indefinitely.
- Cryotherapy and laser surgery can destroy them, but treatment may leave a temporary or permanent white or dark mark.
- Preventative measures include minimizing sun exposure and use of sunscreens, but this needs to start early in life.
