Changes Within Solar Lentigo
- Seborrhoeic Keratoses: These may arise within solar lentigines, leading to localized thickening and textural changes.
- Inflammation: Solar lentigines may become inflamed, resulting in lichenoid keratoses or lichen-planus-like keratoses, which tend to disappear gradually.
Potential for Misdiagnosis
- Atypical Solar Lentigo: When atypical in appearance, it can be difficult to distinguish from melanoma in situ. Accurate diagnosis is crucial to avoid misdiagnosis and ensure appropriate treatment.
Prevention and Outlook
Preventing solar lentigines involves diligent sun protection:
- Clothing: Wearing protective clothing is more effective than relying solely on sunscreens.
- Sunscreen: Regular use of broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 is recommended.
- Sun Avoidance: Avoiding sun exposure during peak UV radiation hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and seeking shade whenever possible.
Prognosis
Solar lentigines usually persist and may increase in number with age and continued sun exposure. However, some may fade and disappear in sun-protected areas.
References:
Mayo Clinic. (2023). Solar Lentigo. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/age-spots/symptoms-causes/syc-20355859
National Health Service (NHS). (2023). Solar Lentigo. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/age-spots/
DermNet New Zealand. (2023). Solar Lentigo. Retrieved from https://dermnetnz.org/topics/solar-lentigo
Stanford Health Care. (2023). Solar Lentigo. Retrieved from https://stanfordhealthcare.org/medical-conditions/skin-hair-and-nails/age-spots.html
