What is Seborrhoeic Keratosis?

Seborrhoeic keratosis is a common, benign skin growth that appears as a waxy, pasted-on or wart-like lesion. These growths are non-cancerous and often occur in older adults. They can be found on any part of the body, but typically appear on the chest, back, head, or neck.

Due to their distinct appearance, people often have concerns about these lesions being skin cancer. However, seborrhoeic keratoses are not cancerous and don’t develop into cancer.

Types of Seborrhoeic Keratosis

Seborrhoeic keratosis can vary in appearance, but they generally fall into one of the following categories:

• Acanthotic: Thickened epidermis, common in older lesions.
• Reticulated: Thinner lesions with a net-like pattern.
• Clonal: Smaller, budding structures within the growth.
• Irritated: Inflamed lesions sometimes mistaken for melanomas due to their redness.

How to Recognize Seborrhoeic Keratosis: Common Symptoms and Visual Clues

Seborrhoeic keratosis is identified based on its appearance. Here are some characteristics to look for:

• Color: These lesions can range from pale to dark brown or black.
• Texture: They are usually slightly elevated with a rough surface.
• Shape: Their edges may be smooth or irregular, giving a "stuck-on" appearance.
• Size: They can range from a few millimeters to more than 2.5 centimeters in diameter.
• Location: Most commonly found on the trunk, face, and shoulders but can occur anywhere except palms and soles.

For more detailed visual references, check this resource on skin lesions.

Who gets Seborrhoeic Keratosis?

Seborrhoeic keratosis primarily affects middle-aged and older adults. Factors that may increase your risk include:

• Genetics: A family history of seborrhoeic keratosis.
• Aging: More common in those aged 50 years and older.
• Sun exposure: May be related but not conclusively proven.

How common is Seborrhoeic Keratosis?

Seborrhoeic keratosis is very common, affecting millions of people worldwide. It's the most common type of benign skin tumor seen in older adults.

Symptoms and Causes

What are the signs of Seborrhoeic Keratosis?

• Development of one or multiple skin growths.
• Lesions tend to be painless, but they can become irritated.
• Growth may gradually change in color and thickness over time.

What causes Seborrhoeic Keratosis?

The exact cause is unknown, but it's believed to be related to genetic factors. There may be some association with sun exposure and existing skin conditions, but these connections are not yet fully understood.

Diagnosis and Tests

How is Seborrhoeic Keratosis diagnosed?

A healthcare provider usually diagnoses seborrhoeic keratosis by examining your skin. If there's any doubt, a biopsy may be carried out to rule out other conditions, including melanoma.

Management and Treatment

How is Seborrhoeic Keratosis treated?

Seborrhoeic keratosis usually doesn't require treatment unless it becomes uncomfortable or leads to cosmetic concerns. Treatment options include:

• Cryotherapy: Freezing the lesion with liquid nitrogen.
• Curettage: Scraping the growth from the skin.
• Electrosurgery: Burning the growth with an electric current.
• Laser therapy: Using a laser to remove the lesion.

Medications

There are no specific medications to treat seborrhoeic keratosis, but tretinoin cream or similar agents may help in reducing the growths' thickness. Always consult with a healthcare provider before beginning any treatment.

Home remedies for Seborrhoeic Keratosis

At present, no proven home remedies can remove seborrhoeic keratosis. Over-the-counter treatments should not be used without medical advice.

Prevention

How can you prevent Seborrhoeic Keratosis?

While you cannot prevent seborrhoeic keratosis, protecting your skin from the sun by using sunscreen could potentially minimize their development.

Outlook / Prognosis

Can Seborrhoeic Keratosis go away on its own?

Seborrhoeic keratosis will not disappear without treatment, but they don't pose a health risk.

Can Seborrhoeic Keratosis come back?

Once a seborrhoeic keratosis is removed, it doesn’t typically return, but more may develop elsewhere over time.

Living With

When should I call the doctor?

Contact a healthcare provider if a seborrhoeic keratosis:

• Changes in appearance.
• Becomes painful, bleeds, or gets infected.
• Has an uncertain diagnosis that could mimic a malignant lesion.

What questions should I ask my doctor?

• How can I be sure this is seborrhoeic keratosis and not something more serious like melanoma?
• What are the most effective treatment options?
• Can removal affect these lesions coming back?

Additional Resources

For additional trusted information about seborrhoeic keratosis, visit:

• American Academy of Dermatology
• NHS resource

By staying informed and consulting with a healthcare professional, you can effectively manage seborrhoeic keratosis.