KERATOSES, SEBORRHEIC

 Basic information

description

Seborrheic keratoses are growths on the outer layer of the skin. They may involve the chest, back, face, and/or arms. They can affect adults of both sexes. By age 60, almost everyone has a few seborrheic keratoses. They are not related to skin cancer.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Growths are raised, thick bumps. They are flat-topped with well-defined borders.
• Newer growths are relatively flat and light brown. Older ones are dark brown or black.
• Growths are wider than tall. They appear "stuck on.".
• They may itch or bleed if they get irritated. They do not cause any pain.
• There may be only l or 2 growths, or there may be as many as 100.

causes

Unknown. They are not caused by sunlight. They can not be spread from one person to another.

risk increases with

• Aging.
• Family history of the disorder.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

They cannot be prevented.

expected outcomes

The number of growths usually increases with age. Each growth is permanent unless removed. Seborrheic keratoses are harmless and require no treatment. People may want them removed (especially if they are unsightly or irritated by clothing).

possible complications

None expected.

 diagnosis & treatment

general measures

• Usually, no treatment is needed. If you are concerned, see your health care provider. The growths can be diagnosed with a skin exam. In some cases, a growth may be removed for viewing under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis.
• The growths can be removed if they are unsightly, are irritated by clothing, or cause problems with shaving. Removal methods include cryosurgery (freezing), chemocautery, light electrosurgery, or shave biopsy. Your health care provider will discuss the treatment options with you.
• After removal, a blister (sometimes with blood) will develop at the treatment site. The top of the blister will come off spontaneously in about 2 weeks. You should have little or no scarring. Wash and use makeup or cosmetics as usual. If clothing irritates the blister, cover it with a small adhesive bandage.
• Seborrheic keratoses on the eyelid borders may require special treatment.

medications

Drugs are usually not needed for this disorder.

activity

No limits.

diet

No special diet.

 notify our office if

• You or a family member has symptoms of seborrheic keratoses and are concerned.
• You want unsightly seborrheic keratoses removed.
• Treated areas become infected (sore, red, feels warm).

Special Notes: