Age spots, also know as liver spots, are dark spots that appear on the skin in older adults. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that liver spots, which have nothing to do with the liver, usually occur in skin that has been exposed to sun, but whether they're caused by sun damage or some other sources is unknown. Melanoma is a deadly form of skin cancer that often first appears as dark spots on the skin. While liver spots are harmless, melanoma, if left untreated, can kill you, so it's important to learn to distinguish between the two.
Step 1
Run your finger over the surface of the spot. Age spots are flat, while most melanomas are slightly raised, according to Dr. Judith Reichman of the Today show. Many melanomas begin life as moles. Also, if a mole begins to itch, it could be a melanoma in the early stages of development. Age spots don't itch.
Step 2
Examine the color of the spot. According to Dr. Reichman, age spots are "redder or lighter" than melanomas. The University of California at San Diego describes melanomas as purplish or blue-black. Age spots tend to be reddish brown.
Step 3
Measure the spot. Most melanomas are larger than 1/4 inch across, reports the University of California at San Diego. This is about the size of a pencil eraser.
Step 4
Trace the outline of the spot with a washable marker. Age spots tend to be symmetrical, meaning one side is the same as the other. They're also round. Melanomas have ragged, uneven margins and are asymmetrical. One side doesn't match the other.
Tips and Warnings
- If you have any doubt about a skin lesion, consult a physician.
- Any spot that changes in appearance or itches should be examined by a doctor. Dr. Reichman reports that age spots sometimes transform into pre-cancerous lesions called actinic keratosis which, if left untreated, can evolve into a form of skin cancer known as squamous cell carcinoma.
Things You'll Need
- Ruler
- Washable marker
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