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Alternative names Return to top
Sun-induced skin changes - liver spots; Senile lentigines; Lentigos; Skin spots - aging; Age spotsDefinition Return to top
Liver spots are flat brown-black spots that usually occur in sun-exposed areas of the body. They are also called age spots. They are unrelated to the liver or liver function.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
Liver spots are changes in skin color associated with older skin. The increased pigmentation may be brought on by aging, exposure to sun or other forms of ultraviolet light, or other unknown causes.Symptoms Return to top
Signs and tests Return to top
A diagnosis is based on the appearance of the skin, especially if the patient is over 40 and has had a lot of sun exposure over the years.Treatment Return to top
No treatment is needed in most cases. The cosmetic appearance of your skin may be improved by the use of skin bleaching lotions or creams. Cryotherapy (freezing) or laser treatment may be recommended to destroy the liver spots.Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
Liver spots are not medically dangerous. They are permanent skin changes that may affect cosmetic appearance.Complications Return to top
A possible complication is emotional distress from the appearance of the liver spots.Calling your health care provider Return to top
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if liver spots are present and removal is desired, or if any new symptoms develop, particularly changes in the appearance of any skin lesion.Prevention Return to top
Protect your skin from the sun by taking the following precautions:
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |