Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Pigmented Lesions
Introduction
Overview
Overview
Pigmented lesions are common and in many cases benign. Though many are benign, it is important for the physician to rule out melignancy to ensure it is not dangerous. They will do this with a biopsy to determine the diagnosis.
Classification
Classification
The three most common types are:
Causes
Causes
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
History and Symptoms
- Note: changes in skin appearance, lesion size, lesion length, any bleeding or irritation
Other Diagnostic Studies
Biopsy
- Shave biopsy: tests for actinic keratosis & seborrheic keratoses
- Deep scoop shave biopsy, excisional biopsy, punch biopsy: tests for dysplastic nevus and melanoma
Treatment
Treatment
Medical Therapy
- Solar lentigines & Freckles: reassurance, lasers or pulse light
Surgery and Device Based Therapy
- Keratoses: topical cryotherapy
Primary Prevention
- Sunscreen
- Annual full skin exams
References
References
Editor-In-Chief: Template:Search infobox C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]