Aging spots - should you be concerned?

Answer 1

Information

Aging spots, also called liver spots, are very common and are usually nothing to worry about.

Always let your doctor know if you have any new or unusual spots. Skin cancers may have many different appearances. Spots or sores related to skin cancers can be small, shiny, or waxy, scaly and rough, firm and red, crusty or bleeding, or have other features.

See also: Skin cancer

References

Barnhill RL, Rabinovitz H. In: Bolognia JL, Jorizzo JL, Rapini RP, eds. Dermatology. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2008:chap 112.

Answer 2

Alternative Names

Age spot concerns

Information

Aging spots, also called liver spots, are very common and are usually nothing to worry about.

Always let your doctor know if you have any new or unusual spots. Skin cancers may have many different appearances. Spots or sores related to skin cancers can be small, shiny, or waxy, scaly and rough, firm and red, crusty or bleeding, or have other features.

See also: skin cancer

References

Habif TP. Light-related diseases and disorders of pigmentation. In: Habif TP, ed. Clinical Dermatology. 5th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby Elsevier; 2009:chap 19.

Reviewed By

Review Date: 04/30/2011

Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.