Summary about Disease
Lentigo maligna is a type of melanoma in situ (stage 0 melanoma) that develops in sun-exposed skin, most commonly on the face, ears, or arms of older individuals. It is characterized by slow growth and a flat, irregularly shaped patch of discolored skin. While not initially invasive, lentigo maligna can eventually progress to invasive melanoma, called lentigo maligna melanoma, if left untreated. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent this progression.
Symptoms
The main symptom is a flat, tan, brown, or dark brown patch of skin.
The patch typically has irregular borders.
It may have variations in color, with darker brown or black spots appearing over time.
It grows slowly, often over years.
The size can range from a few millimeters to several centimeters in diameter.
It's usually found on sun-exposed areas like the face, neck, ears, and arms.
Causes
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation: Primarily from sunlight, is the main risk factor. Tanning beds are also a significant source.
Age: More common in older adults.
Fair skin: Individuals with fair skin, freckles, and a tendency to burn easily are at higher risk.
History of sunburns: Especially severe or blistering sunburns.
Weakened immune system: May increase the risk.
Genetic predisposition: Some individuals may have a genetic susceptibility.
Medicine Used
Topical medications: Imiquimod cream can be used to stimulate the immune system to destroy the abnormal cells.
Surgery: Surgical excision is often the preferred method, involving cutting out the lentigo maligna along with a margin of healthy skin.
Radiation therapy: Can be used when surgery is not feasible or for lesions in difficult-to-reach areas.
Cryotherapy: Freezing the lesion with liquid nitrogen.
Mohs surgery: A specialized surgical technique that removes the cancer layer by layer, examining each layer under a microscope until no cancer cells remain.
Is Communicable
No, lentigo maligna is not contagious or communicable. It is not caused by an infection and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Sun protection:
Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher daily, even on cloudy days.
Apply sunscreen liberally and reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
Wear protective clothing, such as long sleeves, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses.
Seek shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
Avoid tanning beds: Tanning beds significantly increase UV radiation exposure.
Regular skin self-exams: Check your skin regularly for any new or changing moles or spots.
Professional skin exams: See a dermatologist for regular skin exams, especially if you have a family history of melanoma or multiple risk factors.
How long does an outbreak last?
Lentigo maligna is not an "outbreak" in the sense of an infection. It is a slowly developing skin lesion. It persists and grows if left untreated. Treatment is required to remove or destroy the abnormal cells.
How is it diagnosed?
Visual examination: A dermatologist will examine the skin lesion.
Dermoscopy: Using a dermatoscope (a magnifying device with a light) to examine the lesion more closely.
Skin biopsy: A small sample of the skin is removed and examined under a microscope by a pathologist to confirm the diagnosis and determine the presence of cancer cells.
Timeline of Symptoms
The development of lentigo maligna is typically slow, occurring over months to years.
Initial Stage: Appears as a small, flat, light brown or tan patch.
Progression: The patch gradually enlarges and becomes more irregular in shape and color. Darker brown or black spots may appear. The borders become more defined but remain irregular.
Later Stages (if untreated): The lesion continues to grow and may become raised or thickened. It can eventually develop into invasive melanoma (lentigo maligna melanoma), at which point it has the potential to spread to other parts of the body.
Important Considerations
Early detection is key: The earlier lentigo maligna is detected and treated, the better the prognosis.
Regular follow-up: After treatment, regular follow-up appointments with a dermatologist are essential to monitor for recurrence or new skin cancers.
Risk of progression: While lentigo maligna is a melanoma in situ, it has the potential to progress to invasive melanoma if left untreated.
Sun protection is crucial: Lifelong sun protection is essential for preventing new lesions and reducing the risk of recurrence.
Psychological impact: A diagnosis of skin cancer can be stressful. Support groups and counseling can be helpful.