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Have Non-raised Red Spots On Lower Legs After High Heat Sun Exposure. Is There Any Effective Cure?

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Posted on Wed, 22 Aug 2012
Question: I have non-raised red spots on my lower legs after high heat sun exposure. These lesions do not itch and are not painful. The spots typically affect the inner lower leg and calf. This condition started about ten years ago-only after hot sun exposure(several hours) or even after exposure to high heat with high humidity while wearing pants. The diffuse spots last a bout four days if I stay out the sun. I usually can reduce the severity with steroid application. Do have any thoughts about this condition?
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Answered by Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar (3 hours later)
Hi,

You probably are describing about senile actinic purpura. The spots are typically over 3 mm diameter and resolve on their own and reappear. However I am surprised if they appear only on the inner lower leg and calf. Generally we observe on the arms, neck and face since these are directly exposed to sun. Hence it is only senile purpura and there are different possibilities.

As the skin ages, the underlying dermis which supports the microvasculature (small vessels) gets atrophied. So the blood oozes out of these and form such purpuric / petechial spots sometimes leaving a pigment spot as well.

This is not worrisome can be observed as senility. There is no treatment for it however steroids, retionic acid derivates are tried by dermatologist often with no great results.

If you are still concerned you can check with the local Dermatologist only.
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T
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Answered by
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Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 2242 Questions

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Have Non-raised Red Spots On Lower Legs After High Heat Sun Exposure. Is There Any Effective Cure?

Hi,

You probably are describing about senile actinic purpura. The spots are typically over 3 mm diameter and resolve on their own and reappear. However I am surprised if they appear only on the inner lower leg and calf. Generally we observe on the arms, neck and face since these are directly exposed to sun. Hence it is only senile purpura and there are different possibilities.

As the skin ages, the underlying dermis which supports the microvasculature (small vessels) gets atrophied. So the blood oozes out of these and form such purpuric / petechial spots sometimes leaving a pigment spot as well.

This is not worrisome can be observed as senility. There is no treatment for it however steroids, retionic acid derivates are tried by dermatologist often with no great results.

If you are still concerned you can check with the local Dermatologist only.