What could the lesions on the back of a 65-year-old man be?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

My dad is 65 years old and has lesions on his back. I have attached images for your reference. What could these be? He has a normal liver function test although his abdominal ultrasound shows fatty liver grade 2. He also has a normal lipid profile.

Kindly advise.

Answered by Dr. Kakkar

Hi,

I am glad you chose icliniq for your medical-related queries.

I understand your concern and will try to help you with it.

I have viewed the images attached (attachment removed to protect patient identity). The dark spots are perhaps seborrheic keratosis which is a benign epidermal skin lesion. They are a part of aging and only of cosmetic concern. If desired, the seborrheic keratosis can be treated with electrofulguration. The white spots are IGH (idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis). The IGH is one of the skin changes seen in aging skin and requires no active intervention. I can also see some scratch marks which are linear excoriations.

Thank you for consulting me.

You can always reach me at icliniq.com.

Patient's Query

Thank you for consulting me.

You can always reach me at icliniq.com.

What are those long dark color macules like scratches all over? Are they skin lesions?

Answered by Dr. Kakkar

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read and understand your concern.

They are seborrheic keratosis lesions which are tan to brown color. They are macules which are slightly raised with a stuck-on appearance.

Looking forward to your response in order to help you.

Thank you.

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Answered by Dr. Kakkar

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team

November 10, 2017

June 8, 2026

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