Brown spots on the skin are flaky. Brown spots on the skin: types, photos and descriptions

Dark spots on the skin are a kind of defect, the development of which can be caused by a number of reasons. As a rule, the appearance of age spots upsets a person, because they form in prominent places and can be of very different sizes, but this is not their main danger. The formation of dark spots is almost always a clear signal that a serious malfunction has occurred in the functioning of some organ or some system, the nature of which must be clarified through examination by a specialist.

In general, dark spots on the skin are classified into two types:

blue-gray depigmentation - a pigmentation disorder that occurs due to the production of excess melanocytes, metabolic disorders and non-melanin changes;
melanosis - excessive production of melanin in the skin and its excessive concentration in certain areas.

Gray-blue formations are much more common.

Causes and symptoms of blue-gray depigmentation

Nevus Ota

The neoplasm looks like a single dark blue spot localized in the cheeks, upper jaw or eyes. Numerous formations are rare. If neglected, it can invade new areas, affecting the mucous membranes of the nose and mouth, and the color intensity can become bright and saturated. Appears at birth or adolescence, under favorable conditions it can develop into.

The exact reasons for the appearance of formations are unknown, but the fact is known for certain that the vast majority of people with this nevus belong to the Mongoloid race (occasionally to the European race).

Nevus Ita

All signs, locations and prognoses are similar to those of the previous nevus, but there is a significant difference - this dark spot forms on the skin under the armpits, shoulder blades or in the chest area.

Mongolian spot

It is formed at the birth of a child and immediately takes on its maximum size (1-10 cm in diameter). It is colored bluish-brown or gray-blue and is localized on the lower back, buttocks or back.

In very rare cases, the spot migrates (that is, it moves across the skin). Education is single, but for unknown reasons it can be multiple. It is not capable of transforming into melanoma of the skin.

Heavy metals, drugs and heat

The appearance of dark spots can be caused by external factors such as:

the concentration of heavy metals in the body - mercury, silver, bismuth or gold. Gray-blue spots form in places where the accumulation of these elements is highest. Many have probably noticed that in places where earrings, rings or bracelets are worn, the skin in this place begins to darken uncontrollably - this is caused precisely by exposure to metals;
medications - salicylates, tetracyclines, barbiturates, phenolphthaleins. The active substances of these products are also able to concentrate in certain places in the body and provoke the development of dark spots;
exposure to heat - overheating in the sun, the use of heating devices in close proximity to the body (during sleep, for example) leads to depigmentation of the skin and the formation of gray-blue (occasionally dark brown) spots.

Very common among workers in the chemical industry.

Photo of dark spots on the skin

Causes and symptoms of melanosis

Diseases of internal organs

Many chronic diseases can cause excessive melanin production and lead to its deposition. Such pathologies include:

hepatic melanosis - spots are formed due to impaired liver function, which is caused by cirrhosis or similar diseases;
cachectic melanosis - formations are caused by severe course and treatment of tuberculosis;
uremic melanosis - factors influencing the development of spots is chronic renal failure, which provokes the release of melanin in the skin;
endocrine melanosis - congenital or acquired disorders in the functioning of the endocrine system. This could be diabetes mellitus, gonadal dysfunction, thyrotoxicosis, etc.

In some cases, kidney problems can also cause dark spots to appear on the skin.

Reticular melanosis

Depigmentation occurs due to skin poisoning with oil, coal, various resins, and tar. Often accompanies heavy smokers. Dark spots appear on the skin of the arms, legs, chest and back.

Becker's nevus

It is registered in adolescents aged 10-15 years, mainly in boys. This dark brown spot is irregular in shape and has no clear boundaries. Increased hair growth is observed throughout the entire area; the formation can reach up to 20 cm in diameter.

It is classified as transmitted at the genetic level, so there is a high risk that a man with this spot will have a child with the same formation.

Dubreuil's melanosis

This type of depigmentation is considered a form of precancerous conditions. This small spot, protruding slightly above the skin, can quickly grow and darken (from light brown to deep black).

The progression of the neoplasm leads to the appearance of nodular or papillomatous elements of a bright red color, and freckles may also appear around them. All this indicates that the process of degeneration of the spot into melanoma has begun.

Acanthosis nigricans

A rarely reported disease that can be equally benign or malignant. Neoplasms appear in natural folds on the body - in the groin, under the arms, knees, mammary glands, etc. Dark spots on the skin between the legs are considered the most dangerous, since they can disrupt the functioning of the entire reproductive system, affecting many organs by inertia.

You can understand how dangerous the disease is by following the progress of its development: if the skin changes quickly and the progress is aggressive, then it is a malignant formation. It is necessary to consult a doctor as soon as possible to begin treatment.

Lentigo

These pigment spots are also called “senile ripples”. They form in older people and are localized in areas that were previously exposed to excessive sun exposure.

Removing dark spots on skin

It is very important to remember that the nature of the appearance of dark spots can be very different, so any measures must be taken in consultation with a dermatologist or, at a minimum, with a therapist. It may well happen that you will need to consult an oncologist.

Of course, there are various ways to eliminate tumors, they are especially often used when dark spots on the skin cause discomfort and there is a desire to get rid of them as quickly as possible. This should definitely not be done at home, since no one can predict how a skin lesion will react to a particular product.

Dark spots on the skin can be caused by various reasons - from an allergic reaction to chemicals to congenital pathologies. The color of the spots can vary from yellow-brown to black. Some skin diseases accompanied by hyperpigmentation are precursors to cancer. Particular attention should be paid to skin dyschromia in young children, as this can be accompanied by serious pathologies.

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Causes of dark spots on the skin

The appearance of dark spots on the skin can be caused by many factors:

Congenital abnormalities: birthmarks (nevus), lentiginosis, pigment incontinence.
Hereditary hyperpigmentation: freckles, neurofibromatosis, acanthosis nigricans, xeroderma pigmentosum.
Acquired pigmentation: nevi, chloasma, melasma, lentigo.
Hyperpigmentation associated with diseases of internal organs:
- Non-contagious - Addison's disease, hormonal disorders, intestinal and liver diseases.
- Infectious nature - tuberculosis, HIV and others.
Infectious skin diseases: pityriasis versicolor, atrophic acrodermatitis and others.
Insect bites and reactions to chemicals, including medications. The most severe form of manifestation is Lyell's syndrome, which can occur at any age when taking medications. Hyperacute course leads to death. Insect bite marks can be identified by the presence of a puncture in the skin in the center.
Brown spots from sweat may appear under the arms.

If dark spots form on the skin and grow rapidly, you should consult a doctor. This is especially important when this symptom appears in a child, as it may indicate a serious hereditary disease.

Freckles

Freckles are a hereditary, familial hyperpigmentation. Their color varies from light yellow to dark brown, and their shape is round or oval. People with fair skin types are most prone to developing freckles when exposed to ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Such people can be exposed to direct rays without skin protection for no more than 5 minutes. Freckles form on exposed areas of the skin, most often on the face.

Regarding freckles, it is necessary to take preventive measures - the use of photoprotective creams and ointments, especially in spring and summer. During the cold season they can disappear completely. To whiten the skin, cosmetic serums, creams and ointments, and chemical peeling are used.

Chloasma

Chloasma is an acquired type of hyperpigmentation. Irregularly shaped spots are dark yellow or brown in color; they do not protrude above the surface of the skin. Most often they appear between the ages of 20-50 years. The spots are localized in the following areas:

cheeks;
upper lip area;
around eyes;
On the nose.

Predisposing factors for the appearance of chloasma are:

hormonal imbalance during pregnancy and lactation, menopause, menstrual cycle;
chronic liver diseases;
inflammatory processes in the female genital organs;
use of oral contraceptives.

Treatment of chloasma depends on the cause of its appearance and is carried out after consultation with a therapist, endocrinologist and gynecologist. The following means are used:

vitamin therapy – ascorbic and nicotinic acids, Riboflavin, Aevit, folic acid;
in the presence of photosensitivity - Plaquenil, Delagil, nicotinic acid, calcium pangamate;
bleaching agents - lemon juice, 2% apple or table vinegar and cosmetics;
chemical therapy, laser therapy, photorejuvenation.

Lentigo (lentiginosis)

Lentigo can be either hereditary or acquired. The last form of hyperpigmentation occurs with liver diseases and old age. Intense solar radiation is the main provoking factor.

Many small pigment spots appear on the skin, the color of which varies from light brown to black. The localization of the rash is as follows:

around the mouth;
on the lips;
in the oral cavity;
back of the hands;
soles of feet;
conjunctiva of the eyes.

Skin rashes are often combined with polyps in the gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms of polyposis and pigmentation increase with age. Polyps can develop into malignant tumors, so they are removed surgically. Skin lesions are precancerous and can also become malignant.

Addison's disease

The appearance of Addison's disease ("bronze" disease) is associated with several pathologies:

diseases of the adrenal glands;
nervous system disorders;
changes in the pancreas;
tuberculosis.

In addition to dark skin pigmentation, the disease is characterized by the following symptoms:

general weakness;
Gastrointestinal disorders - loss of appetite, dyspepsia, abdominal pain;
anemia;
dysfunctions of the nervous system - depression, anxiety, tension, tremor.

It is known that hypopigmentation can occur when nerves are damaged, and some people's hair turns white within a few hours. Addison's disease is also classified as a neuroses that causes dyschromia.

Moles

Moles, or nevi, are benign skin formations. There is a wide variety of their types, both in color and shape:

Blue nevus ranges in size from a few millimeters to 1 cm. Most often it appears on the skin of women. The color of moles is dark blue. In old age they can transform into melanoma.
Satton's nevus looks like a brown papule 3-5 mm with a lighter rim. Appears on any part of the body and can disappear spontaneously. Treatment, as in the case of blue nevus, is carried out by surgical excision.
Becker's nevus is detected mainly in men. First, a small plaque appears with an uneven surface, yellow-brown or brown in color. It gradually grows and can reach significant sizes. In the center of the spot there is hypertrophied hair growth. This type of mole is localized on the shoulders, back and under the mammary glands. There is no specific treatment.
Nevus Oto is a hereditary pathology that is more common among people of Asian descent. Spotty rashes ranging from gray-brown to black in color are located on the skin of the forehead, temples, cheeks, nose, ears and lips, as well as on the conjunctiva, cornea and iris of the eyes. The surface of hyperpigmented skin is smooth. There is no specific treatment.
Systematized pigmented nevus is a symmetrical yellow-brown spot, flat or slightly raised above the skin level. Its size can vary from a few millimeters to several centimeters. The spots have no inflammatory changes. Most often they are located on the torso or neck. A nevus can be congenital or appear due to injury.

It should be borne in mind that melanomas (cancer) of the skin often arise as a result of single or multiple trauma to the nevus:

bruises;
abrasions and cuts;
rubbing with clothes or shoes.

Skin melanoma is twice as likely to appear at the site of a congenital or acquired mole than on unaltered skin. Benign moles do not itch. If a mole has acquired a heterogeneous color, changed its shape to asymmetrical, or irregularities, inflammation, ulceration, and itching have appeared on its surface, then it is necessary to consult a dermatologist. Nevi that are located in areas subject to friction, as well as on the face, are recommended to be removed. There are several ways to do this:

laser surgery;
diathermocoagulation;
cryodestruction (removal with liquid nitrogen).

Pityriasis versicolor (lichen versicolor)

In pityriasis versicolor, skin damage by Malassezia fungi occurs superficially and there is no inflammation. The prevalence of the disease reaches 10% of the total population, and 90% are carriers of the fungus. Most often, this skin lesion is observed in adults.

At the beginning of the disease, spots with clear contours appear; their color varies from yellowish to brown and is determined mainly by exposure to ultraviolet radiation. They stand out especially clearly in fair-skinned people. The spots may coalesce into large areas. A characteristic feature of the rash is slight peeling, which intensifies when scraped. The spots are most often localized in areas rich in sebaceous glands:

scalp;
area near the ears;
face;
middle of chest and back;
groin area.

Accurate diagnosis of the disease is carried out using microscopic examination. For treatment, local antimycotic agents are used: shampoos, ointments, creams. In case of frequent repeated relapses, the doctor prescribes systemic antifungal medications (Ketoconazole, Fluconazole and others).

Acrodermatitis atrophica

Acrodermatitis atrophicus is associated with manifestations of Lyme disease, an infectious disease in which the human skin is affected by the Borrelia bacterium after being bitten by Ixodid ticks. In the initial stage, the affected skin becomes red with a bluish, purple, brick or brown tint. Small inflammatory spots form on the flexor-extensor surface of the limbs, and then spread further, merging into large areas. On the shoulders and lower legs, spots form in the form of stripes. In the atrophy phase, the color becomes brown and has uneven intensity in different areas. The skin becomes thinner, wrinkled and dry.

For diagnosis, a serological examination of blood tests is performed. It is also advisable to examine the bitten tick for the presence of the pathogen. The basis of treatment is antibiotic therapy (Ceftriaxone, Cefotaxime or macrolides). As a preventive measure for tick bites, it is recommended to take Doxycycline.

Tuberculosis and HIV

The stage of acute HIV infection without secondary diseases is accompanied by various skin manifestations, including the formation of urticaria (resembling a nettle burn) and roseola (light pink) spots. In the later stages of the development of the disease, other bacterial, viral and fungal infections are added, which are characterized by dark-colored rashes: rubromycosis, pityriasis versicolor, Kaposi's sarcoma, angiopathy. The latter pathology is associated with damage to blood vessels and is also observed in diabetes mellitus. Most often, angiopathy develops on the feet, the skin first turns pale, then becomes bluish and black, trophic ulcers form, weeping areas of dark-colored skin, and gangrene occurs.

With Kaposi's sarcoma, the rash begins with pink-red spots that transform into large dark nodules. The nodes may ulcerate, and dead tissue is rejected. Most often, the rash appears on the hands, feet, genitals and oral mucosa.

Elimination of a skin rash is possible only by treating the underlying disease. With skin tuberculosis, the spots are mainly pink or red in color, and with the warty type, growths with a bluish tint are formed.

Neurofibromatosis

Neurofibromatosis (Recklinghausen's disease) is a hereditary disease and most often occurs in children aged 12-15 years. First, many oval-shaped pigment spots with a smooth surface appear. Their color is yellowish-brown (“coffee with milk”). The spots are located on the torso, under the arms and in the groin. With age, the size and area of coverage of the rash increases. Gradually, a second characteristic sign appears - neurofibromas - hernia-like skin protrusions reaching several centimeters in size. Itching, pain or loss of sensation is felt.

A characteristic sign is the presence of spots in the armpits and groin that resemble freckles, since freckles do not form in these places. This disease is often accompanied by other problems of the nervous, cardiovascular and endocrine systems. Treatment for neurofibromatosis involves surgical removal of the tumors.

Xeroderma pigmentosum

Xeroderma pigmentosum is a hereditary disease associated with the absence or deficiency of enzymes responsible for the reproduction of DNA damaged by ultraviolet rays. The disease manifests itself in a child at a very early age, in spring or summer. The first rash in the form of red spots appears on open areas of the skin. At the site of the inflamed areas, spots appear in the form of dots similar to moles. Their color ranges from light brown or brown.

The rash increases in size and becomes dark brown in color. Then papillomas and warts appear, most often on the face and neck. Papillomas degenerate into malignant tumors, which in a short period of time metastasize to internal organs and lead to death. Most patients do not live beyond the age of 15. In rare cases, the life expectancy of such people is 40-50 years.

Treatment is symptomatic - with antimalarials that protect DNA from exposure to ultraviolet radiation, antihistamines, vitamin therapy, sunscreens and ointments.

Acanthosis nigricans

The following factors play a role in the appearance of acanthosis nigricans (papillary pigmentary dystrophy of the skin):

heredity;
endocrine diseases (lack of thyroid hormones, diabetes mellitus, increased production of adrenal hormones);
obesity;
malignant neoplasms.

The disease manifests itself in childhood and is characterized by the appearance of first brownish and then black spots in the following places:

armpits;
on flexural surfaces;
in the inguinal and gluteal folds;
on the sides of the neck;
around the navel.

The spots cause itching and a feeling of tightness on the skin. In adults, the skin acquires pronounced changes - gray-black color, roughening, papillomatosis. In obese women, the disease develops against the background of pathologies of the endocrine system and under the influence of a hot climate. In 80% of cases of the disease, these rashes appear with cancer, and in the remaining 20% they precede it several years before detection. Treatment is symptomatic; malignant tumors are removed surgically.

Pigment incontinence

The mutant gene for Bloch-Sulzberg menoblastosis (pigment incontinence) is localized on the X chromosome, that is, the disease is characteristic of women. In a child, it appears immediately at birth or a few days after it. First, redness and blistering rashes appear on the skin, and after 3-6 months, brownish-yellow spots of irregular shape (“dirt splashes”) form. By the age of 15-20, acanthosis nigricans develops. The rash is localized mainly on the arms, legs and sides of the body.

There are no effective treatments for this disease. At the initial stage, low doses of corticosteroids, external anti-inflammatory drugs and antiseptics are used.

If brown spots appear on the skin, this may not only indicate the presence of some disease, but usually this is the first sign of “aging” of the skin. But what to do if such symptoms are observed at the age of 20-35 years or in young children in general? Here, much will depend on the competence of the dermatologist, who will have to make the correct diagnosis and select effective treatment.

Possible diseases

Attention! I would like to immediately dispel the common myth about brown spots that are associated with the liver. People call them “liver spots” because of their characteristic color. The “liver cleanse” that some unscrupulous clinics may offer is nothing more than a scam.

When establishing the cause of the appearance of brown spots on the skin, great attention is paid to the following points:

size of education;
color intensity;
surface of the lesion;
number of rashes;
accompanying symptoms (peeling, itching, scales, etc.);
place of localization.

Today, dermatology has a huge number of diseases that can cause the appearance of brown spots on the human body. Here are the most common:

Lentigo. The disease is classified as pigment spots that are hereditary in nature. A characteristic difference is the appearance of round or oval brown spots on the body. They barely noticeably rise above the skin. Not accompanied by any subjective sensations. Localization of formations is open areas of the body, less often the torso and mucous membranes. They usually appear in the first year of life, less often at 5-30 years. The prognosis for ordinary lentigo is favorable; rare hereditary forms are dangerous, which can transform into a malignant tumor.
Pityriasis versicolor. A very common fungal breed, usually found in people aged 20-45 years. almost always begins with the appearance of small light brown spots on the skin, eventually reaching the size of a large coin. A dark, yellow or pink coloration may also be observed. Patients very rarely complain of itching. The surface of the rash is rough, since the fungi affect not only the upper layer of the epidermis, but also the hair follicle. There is no clear statement that tinea versicolor can be contracted from another person or animal. Exacerbations occur most often in spring and summer.
Neurofibromatosis. A rare but very dangerous genetic disease that is hereditary in nature. There are several types of neurofibromatosis, which can be either congenital or acquired. The main symptom is the appearance of coffee-colored spots with a brown tint on the body. But, to make a diagnosis, they look not only at the presence of formations (there must be at least 6 of them), but also at heredity (does any of the immediate relatives suffer from this disease), hyperpigmentation (in the groin or axillary region), the presence of neurofibromas and optic nerve gliomas. Only if two clinical signs are present can DNA diagnostics and other studies be prescribed.
Erythrasma. Pseudomycosis, which is caused by the pathogen Corynebacterium minutissum. In medicine, this disease is classified as something between fungi and bacteria. Characteristic differences are the appearance on the skin of red-yellow and dark brown spots the size of a small coin. As the process progresses, the rashes can merge with each other, transforming into large lesions measuring 5-7 cm in diameter. The surface is almost always smooth; peeling and small scales can rarely be observed. Localization - in 80% inguinal-femoral folds, armpits and mammary glands, in 20% in other parts of the body. There are no subjective sensations provided there are no secondary infections, which can occur in the summer due to constant friction of the folds. At risk of developing erythrasma are men who suffer from excessive sweating and work in conditions of high humidity (foundries, mines, etc.). Contagiousness is insignificant, so cases of familial outbreaks of erythrasma have not been described.
Freckles. A very common cause of small brown spots on the skin of the face, neck and chest. The disease is classified as a benign skin tumor. Freckles never rise above the surface of the skin and are not accompanied by peeling. The surface of the formations is always smooth. The size of one rash is 1-3 mm. There is a tendency to merge into large foci. A distinctive feature is small brown or dark brown spots randomly scattered over a certain area of the skin, reminiscent of bread crumbs. Most often, freckles appear between the ages of 7 and 10 years. Blondes, red-haired and fair-haired people are at risk; freckles are less common among brown-haired people and almost never among brunettes.
Pityriasis rosea. Despite its name, this dermatosis is characterized by damage to the skin with small red-brown spots. The cause of its appearance is associated with hormonal imbalances and decreased immunity. very often occurs during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Localization of rashes is the face, neck, arms, abdomen, chest, and less commonly, legs and groin area. Subjective sensations may include slight itching and swelling in the affected area.
Athlete's foot. A fungal disease that usually occurs in men aged 25-45 years and women aged 25-35 years. It usually appears as large red lesions that are covered with scales and peeling. As the process progresses, the lesions may darken, which may explain the appearance of huge brown spots between the legs and in the inguinal-femoral folds. Workers in “hot” shops, miners, athletes, bathhouse attendants and swimming pool workers usually get sick. Excessive sweating and problems with excess weight are considered predisposing factors for athlete's foot.

Very often, the appearance of small brown spots on the body can be caused by hormonal changes (in women, this process is observed during pregnancy and during breastfeeding).

Photo of brown spots on the body

Diagnosis and treatment

In most cases, brown spots on the skin do not pose any danger to human health and life, especially in adults. If peeling, crusts and itching appear along with them, it is recommended to make an appointment with a dermatologist to rule out fungal diseases and dermatoses.

Brown spots pose the greatest danger to children, as they can be a harbinger of a terrible disease - neurofibromatosis. It can affect not only the skin, but also internal organs. Deviations in mental development are also very often observed. If a child has more than five café-au-lait spots, he recommends urgently visiting a dermatologist.

The appearance of large dark brown spots in the groin area, between the legs and inner thighs may indicate the presence of athlete's foot, erythrasma or rubromycosis. The diagnosis is established based on examination of the clinical picture and laboratory studies of scales and peeling from the lesions. If the process is not complicated by secondary infections, you can get by with external means alone:

erythromycin ointment 5% (treatment of lesions 2 times a day for a week).
salicylic alcohol 5%;
clotrimazole;
boric alcohol 3% (cold lotions);
iodine solution 1%;
sulfur-tar ointment 3%.

The duration of the course of treatment and the selection of the drug depends on the form and course of the disease. On average it is 2-4 weeks.

Pityriasis versicolor is easily diagnosed due to its characteristic clinical picture. The Balzer iodine test can be used to confirm the diagnosis. If you treat the lesion with a 5% iodine solution, then even with the naked eye you can notice that the spots are colored much more intensely than healthy areas of the skin. If there are hidden lesions or in very controversial situations, they may resort to glowing the spots under the rays of a Wood's lamp. Under them, the lichen versicolor will glow yellow-brown or yellow-red. Treatment usually includes the following:

Sulfuric ointment;
salicylic ointment;
resorcinol alcohol;
boric salicylic alcohol.

For maximum effect, lesions are treated with fungicidal and keratolytic agents, which are selected by a dermatologist based on the clinic and the course of the disease.

Freckles, lentigo and pityriasis rosea cannot be treated. In the first two cases, they may resort to using:

chemical peeling;
cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen);
photothermolysis;
laser

In 90% of cases, pityriasis rosea goes away on its own within 3-6 weeks. For preventive purposes, you can take a course of drugs that enhance immunity. If brown spots are caused by the aging process of the skin, then, unfortunately, medicine is powerless.

Lichen refers to skin diseases, the main element of which is nodular formations that cause itching, inflammation or tissue necrosis. There are several types of lichen in humans, as well as a number of reasons why it can appear on the body.

Below we will look at what can cause spots on the body that look like lichen, that itch, or, on the contrary, do not cause concern. Photos of suspected diseases will help us with this.

These may be hemorrhagic and hyperemic spots, chronic infectious diseases, stress, decreased immunity, vitamin deficiency, various skin diseases and allergic reactions.

Let's take a closer look at lichen on the body

If spots appear on the body, then perhaps these are symptoms of this disease. At the same time, it makes sense to pay attention to the various manifestations of this disease (see photo below).

There are 6 main forms of lichen that occur on the human body:

pityriasis alba;
versicolor (, colored) lichen;
(another name is trichophytosis);
(Gibera);

Where are the patient's rashes located? The spots can affect various parts of the epidermis. So, the rash may appear in the following places:

on the back;
breasts;
in the groin;
face and neck;
on the stomach;
in the area of the upper and lower extremities.

The disease occurs mainly in adolescents and can last for several weeks or several months.

Symptoms of pityriasis rosea:

the appearance of round spots that begin to peel off in the middle;
rashes with a red border around the periphery;
unlike other forms of lichen, the rashes do not merge into a single focus;
slight pain.

This type of lichen is an infectious disease that most often occurs in children, animals and middle-aged people. Infection occurs through direct contact with a sick animal or person.

Ringworm appears on the body, limbs and scalp. The worst thing about this type of deprivation is that bald spots appear on the head.

Caused by the chickenpox virus. It is localized mainly in the area of the ribs, but can sometimes be present on other parts of the body. This disease mainly affects adults; in childhood it manifests itself as chickenpox.

Shingles is characterized by severe itching, the appearance of blisters with clear liquid, which burst after 3-4 days and become crusty.

Treatment consists of taking antiviral drugs such as Acyclovir and pain medications as needed.

Red flat

The first signs that you have been struck by lichen ruber are rashes that appear on the arms, chest, abdomen and the front of the lower leg. They look like small nodules and are very different in color from the rest of the skin. The rashes are bluish or brown in color.

All patients complain of severe itching of the affected skin, there is no peeling. There is a shine on the rashes. Nodules on a person’s body can grow, turn into plaques and reach the size of a palm. The color of the plaques becomes grayish-red.

Tinea versicolor

It all starts with the appearance of yellow or yellow-brown spots on the skin. Gradually they begin to increase in size and merge, occupying more and more new areas of the skin. Then the spots change color and become dark brown or coffee brown. This change in colors gave the disease its name.

The spots do not protrude above the surface of the skin. They peel off, but do not cause itching in humans. The main places where spots are localized are the sides, shoulders, stomach, neck, chest, and back. Lichen versicolor rarely occurs on the face.

Pityriasis alba

The peculiarity of white lichen is that the disease itself is chronic in nature and can often recur even in the absence of any disorders in the body. Its main symptom is blurry white spots that appear on various parts of the body, usually on the face, lower and upper extremities. The size of the spots ranges from 1 to 4 cm.

The appearance of dark spots on the face or body always upsets us. This seemingly only aesthetic problem makes you feel embarrassed in front of others and look for various cosmetic methods to eliminate the hated ones. However, dark spots on the skin are not only an external defect. Their appearance in many cases signals malfunctions in the functioning of various systems or organs and requires a comprehensive examination and observation by a specialist.

In this article, we will introduce you to the main types of dark spots on the skin and the reasons for their appearance. This knowledge will guide you in further actions, and you will be able to prevent the progression of many diseases.

Types of Dark Spots

This disease is not common. It can be observed in both men and women, and is more often detected in adulthood (after 50 years). According to some experts, this pigmentation disorder is more often observed in women.

Various factors can contribute to the development of precancerous melanosis Dubreuil:

age;
race (pathology is extremely rare among representatives of the Negroid race);
skin photosensitivity;
frequent skin trauma;
tanning abuse;
overdrying of the skin.

The transformation of Dubreuil's melanosis into a cancerous tumor can occur after 2-30 years (on average 10-15 years). According to some statistics, malignant melanoma in 20-30% of cases develops against the background of such a pigmentation disorder. The transformation of Dubreuil's melanosis (in 40-75% of cases) into cancer is especially likely if left untreated.

Acanthosis nigricans

This rare skin disease can occur in a benign or malignant form. The clinical picture is accompanied by the appearance of black or dark brown spots with hyperkeratosis and papillomatosis. They are most often located in large natural folds (under the mammary glands, armpits, intergluteal region, under the knees, between the back of the head and neck, etc.) or on the elbows. The severity of symptoms depends on the form of the disease - with a malignant course, changes in the skin are more pronounced and progress faster.

Various factors can cause the development of acanthosis nigricans:

malignant tumors;
endocrine diseases;
taking hormonal medications;
long-term use of certain medications.

In young people, this disease often develops due to a genetic predisposition or endocrine diseases, and in older people, it often becomes a sign of the formation of a malignant neoplasm. Sometimes the symptoms of acanthosis nigricans become harbingers of cancer.

Urticaria pigmentosa (mastocytosis)

It is a form of mastocytosis and is observed in 75% of cases in children. Itchy red-pink spots appear on the body of a sick child, which transform into blisters filled with clear liquid (sometimes mixed with blood). After opening such skin changes, brown-brown pigmentation remains on the skin (in some cases, the blisters leave no traces). In 70% of cases, during or after puberty, areas of hyperpigmentation resolve on their own.

In adults, urticaria pigmentosa does not proceed as favorably as in children, and is often complicated by systemic mastocytosis, which leads to disability and death of the patient.

The reasons for the development of urticaria pigmentosa and mastocytosis have not yet been sufficiently studied. Scientists suggest that these pathologies can be provoked by the following factors:

genetic predisposition;
inflammatory processes caused by toxic lesions or infections;
immune reactions;
stress;
climate change;
insolation, etc.

Nevus spilus (coffee stain)

This type of hyperpigmentation is accompanied by the appearance of one or several spots with uniform coloring and clear contours. They can be localized on any part of the skin, are present from birth or appear spontaneously. The sizes of coffee stains can vary and increase as they grow. Their shade can range from light to dark brown. Darker or black dots are sometimes observed on the surface of the spots and there is never any hair growth.

The reasons for the appearance of Nevus spilus are not yet well understood. There are suggestions that their formation is provoked by a hereditary predisposition.

Lentigo

These dark, smooth spots on the skin are benign hyperpigmentations that are yellowish-brown or dark brown in color. Their sizes can reach 1-2 cm in diameter. The spots can be localized on the face, neck, or the surfaces of the arms and legs. They are characterized by a chronic course, slow progression and extremely rare degeneration into malignant melanoma (the risk of malignancy increases with frequent trauma to the skin in the area of the spot).

Lentigo can occur among patients of any age group. Among the reasons for their appearance are the following factors:

gene mutations;
genetic predisposition (heredity, phonotype);
hormonal imbalance (puberty, pregnancy, menopause, hormonal disorders, intake);
long-term insolation;
hypersensitivity to ultraviolet rays;
sunburn in childhood;
long-term exposure to artificial sources of learning;
age;
immune disorders;
immunosuppression after organ transplantation;
carrier status

Lentigo is often provoked by a combination of several of the factors described above.

LEOPARD syndrome

This pathology is characterized by the appearance at a young age of hundreds of lentigines on the surface of the skin of the trunk, face and limbs. It is always accompanied by disorders in other organs and systems: valvular stenosis of the pulmonary artery, impaired cardiac conduction, growth retardation, mild mental retardation, and other pathologies of the genital organs, late onset of menstruation, sensorineural deafness and widely spaced eyes.

LEOPARD syndrome is always caused by gene mutations:

PTPN11;

Chloasma

These multiple or single dark spots appear in women and are irregularly shaped areas of hyperpigmentation that are yellow-brown (sometimes darker) in color. In some cases they are large in size, and their outlines resemble a geographical map. The location of chloasma can be different: face, nipples, torso (along the white line of the abdomen), genitals. In winter and autumn, hyperpigmentation may fade.

The reason for the appearance of such dark spots is always associated with hormonal imbalance (increased estrogen levels):

ovarian dysfunction;
pregnancy;
menopause period.

Freckles

Freckles appear more often in people with light eyes and hair.

These small, dark patches of light yellow or deeper brown skin may appear on the face or body. They often appear in children, become more noticeable in spring and summer (during periods of greater solar activity) and may disappear completely with age.

Most often, freckles appear in people of phototypes I-II (blond hair and skin, blue or green eyes) after exposure to ultraviolet rays. Scientists have proven a hereditary predisposition to this type of hyperpigmentation.

Poikiloderma

This type of dark spots is a special type of skin atrophy that is accompanied by patchy or reticular hyperpigmentation and telangiectasia. Dermatologists distinguish congenital (Thomson syndrome) and acquired types of poikiloderma. Pathologies are accompanied by the appearance of redness and swelling on the skin. Subsequently, skin atrophy develops and telangiectasia, hyperpigmentation and depigmentation appear. Patients have hypersensitivity to ultraviolet rays. Skin changes can be observed on the face, neck, arms, legs and buttocks. With congenital poikiloderma, which is more often observed in women, other pathologies are present: underdevelopment of the genital organs, cataracts, abnormalities of hair, teeth, nails and bones

The following factors can cause the development of poikiloderma:

pathological gene on chromosome 8 (with congenital pathology);
frequent and prolonged exposure to sunlight on the neck and chest;
ionizing radiation;
some cosmetics;
endocrine disorders;
connective tissue pathologies;
muscle tissue diseases;
dermatological diseases;
other unknown reasons.

Recklinghausen's disease

With Recklinghausen's disease (or neurofibromatosis type I), dark café-au-lait spots appear on the skin, rashes in the form of "clusters" of freckles (in atypical places) and neurofibromas.

Hyperpigmented spots may be present on the body from birth or appear during childhood. The intensity of their color can vary and is usually represented by brown shades, but in some cases they can have a gray-blue color. They are usually located on the surface of the limbs or torso, and there are at least five of them. With age, their number may increase. Neurofibromas appear on the patient's body. And subsequently they appear in other systems and organs (on nervous tissue, adrenal glands, etc.). In 3-15% of cases they can degenerate into cancerous tumors.

As the disease progresses, the nervous system and musculoskeletal system are involved in the pathological process. Patients exhibit varying degrees of mental retardation, epileptic seizures, depression and psychological disorders. On the bone side, patients with neurofibromatosis experience various anomalies: defects of the vertebral bodies, cysts in the tubular bones, etc.

Also, with Recklinghausen's disease, the following disorders are detected:

Lisch nodules (hamarthromas on the iris of the eye);
premature puberty;
growth disorders;
syringomyelia (a disease accompanied by the appearance of cavities in the spinal cord);
pulmonary and renal artery stenosis;
formation of cysts in the lungs.

The cause of Recklinghausen's disease is a mutation in the gene of chromosome 17, which manifests itself in 100% of cases and cannot go unnoticed throughout life. This severe disease is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner and increases the risk of developing malignant neoplasms.

Peutz-Jeghers syndrome

With Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, small lentigine spots of brownish-yellow, brown or dark brown color appear on the skin and mucous membranes of the patient. On the mucous membranes of the oral cavity, nasopharynx, sclera and red border of the lips they have a blue-brown color.

The size of pigmentation can reach 1-4 mm. On the face they are most often localized around the lips and eyes or around the nostrils, and on the body - on the back of the hands and forearms, chest, abdomen and palms. Less commonly, hyperpigmentation is observed on the forehead, chin, external genitalia, or around the anus.

In patients with Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, polyps form in the intestinal lumen. These neoplasms lead to the periodic appearance of abdominal pain, dyspeptic disorders, diarrhea, rumbling in the abdomen and flatulence. Subsequently, they can degenerate into malignant tumors.

Peutz-Jeghers syndrome is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner and is often observed in several family members. This pathology is common on all continents and is somewhat more common in women. In some cases, the pathology occurs without the appearance of dark spots on the skin and mucous membranes and is accompanied only by the development of intestinal polyposis.

Causes and main symptoms of blue-gray dispigmentation

Nevus Ota

Nevus of Ota is a unilateral single spot of black-bluish or dark blue color, which is located in the area of the eye, upper jaw and cheek. Sometimes such a pigmentation disorder consists of several spots merging with each other. In rare cases, this dyspigmentation can be bilateral.

Such a dark spot can spread to the sclera and mucous membranes of the eye, pharynx and nose. The intensity of its color can vary - from slightly noticeable to ugly saturated. The spot is present from birth or appears during adolescence and does not disappear on its own. Sometimes nevus of Ota transforms into melanoma of the skin.

Scientists do not yet know the exact reasons for the appearance of such blue-gray dispigmentation. Presumably the formation of nevus of Ota is due to hereditary factors, but this theory has not yet received substantiated confirmation. In most cases, such dark spots appear in people of the Mongoloid race. In isolated cases, nevus of Ota is detected in people of European or Negroid races.

Nevus Ita

The symptoms of nevus of Ita are in many ways similar to the symptoms of nevus of Ota. The only difference between such a dark spot is its location - the area of hyperpigmentation is localized on the neck, in the chest or shoulder blade area, or under the collarbone.

Mongolian spot

With a Mongolian spot, an area of gray-blue, bluish or bluish-brown pigmentation of an irregular or round shape is found on the skin of a newborn. Its size can vary (from 1-2 to 10 or more centimeters in diameter). It is usually located in the lumbosacral region, but can also be localized in other parts of the body (back, buttocks, back of the lower leg, etc.). Sometimes migration of the area of dyspigmentation may be observed, i.e. displacement (for example, from the lumbar region to the buttock). In most cases, the Mongolian spot is single, but multiple dispigmentations of this type also occur. There have been no cases of such dark spots transforming into skin cancer.

At first, the dispigmentation has a rich color, but with age it becomes pale and gradually decreases in size. More often, the spot completely disappears by 4-5 years, but sometimes it can be observed up to 7-13 years. In rare cases, the Mongolian spot is also present in adults.

Scientists believe that such dyspigmentation develops with incomplete migration of melanocytes from the deeper layers of the skin into the epidermis. The exact reason for this incomplete process is still unknown. The Mongolian spot is observed in 90% of cases in children of the Mongoloid race, often detected in the Negroid race and only in 1% of cases among Caucasians.

Gray-blue dispigmentation due to heat exposure, medication use and accumulation of heavy metals

Dark spots on the skin can also be caused by various external factors:

thermal effects - such dispigmentation is observed with the systematic use of heating bedding; spots of a gray-blue hue appear on the skin, accompanied by burning, scarring, erythema and peeling;
taking medications - such dyspigmentation is provoked by taking certain medications (barbiturates, salicylates, phenolphthalein or tetracyclines), gray-blue or red-brown spots appear on the skin, which are always located in the same area;
accumulation of heavy metals - such dispigmentation is provoked by the accumulation of silver, bismuth, mercury or gold in the layers of the skin; with the accumulation of gold, spots of brown shades are observed, and with the accumulation of other substances they have a gray-blue color of varying intensity. Such disorders can be caused by taking amiadrone, bleomycin, clofazimine, zidovudine, thyriodazine, etc.

The causes of dark spots on the skin are many and varied. Some of them are completely harmless, can go away on their own or are easily eliminated and are only a cosmetic problem. However, there are also dangerous types of skin hyperpigmentation that require constant monitoring by a specialist and treatment. Remember this, do not ignore any symptoms of skin discoloration and be healthy!