Age spots are dark spots that appear on the skin, particularly in areas exposed to the sun, such as the arms, face, head and chest. Although age spots are typically harmless, like other skin abnormalities, changes in age spots can signal a problem. If you notice changes to an age spot, either in appearance or sensation, make the time to see your health care provider and discuss your concerns. Regular self-examinations of your skin and annual skin exams by your doctor can help to keep you aware of possible changes.
Significance
Age spots or lentigos, sometimes called liver spots, usually appear on aging skin. These dark spots are the result of your skin protecting itself from sunlight by clustering melanin under the skin. They may appear as tan, brown or even brownish black depending upon your coloring and are typically flat and rounded in shape, according to Skin-Care.Health-Cares.net.
Considerations
Age spots are a sign of sun damage, and they can be prevented with regular use of a high SPF sunscreen. Sunscreen use is also critical to protect your skin from skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanomas, reports the Mayo Clinic. Sun-protective clothing, such as a large brimmed hat, can also be helpful. If your age spots are just age spots with no changes or concerns, your dermatologist can recommend treatments to improve the appearance of your skin.
Identification
Knowing when to worry about an age spot can help you catch a problem early. The American Cancer Society suggests that you use the ABCD rule to spot signs of malignant melanoma. Asymmetry in a mole, freckle or age spot is one potential sign of a problem. Irregular or blurred borders in an age spot are also a concern. C stands for color. An age spot with color irregularities should be checked by your doctor. The final guideline is diameter. You should have age spots over 1/4 inch in size checked by your health care provider.
Changes
Changes in your skin, particularly in pigmented spots like age spots, should be carefully watched by your doctor. If age spots are growing or the surface is irritated, raised or irregular, you should report this to your doctor. Changes in sensation, including itching or pain, can also be a sign of cancer, reports the American Cancer Society. As with most types of cancer, early detection is key to a good outcome.
Potential
When you approach your doctor with concerns about an age spot, you can expect a referral to a dermatologist, who will perform a full skin examination. A dermatoscope can allow the doctor to more closely examine a suspicious age spot or lesion and potentially avoid a biopsy on a benign age spot, according to the American Cancer Society. A biopsy may be performed to assess the need for further surgical or medical treatment, depending upon the findings and the type of cancer.
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