Overview Of Seborrheic Keratosis
Seborrheic Keratosis is a condition that causes wart-like growths on the skin. The growths are noncancerous (benign).
Commonly Associated With
Benign skin tumors – keratosis; Senile keratosis; Senile verruca
Causes Of Seborrheic Keratosis
This condition is a benign form of skin tumor. The cause is unknown.
It commonly appears after age 40, and tends to run in families.
Symptoms Of Seborrheic Keratosis
Symptoms of this condition are skin growths that:
- Are located on the face, chest, shoulders, back, or other areas, except the lips, palms, and soles
- Are painless, but may become irritated and itchy
- Are most often tan, brown, or black
- Have a slightly raised, flat surface
- May have a rough texture (like a wart)
- Often have a waxy surface
- Are round or oval in shape
- May look like a piece of bee’s wax that has been “pasted-on” the skin
- Often appear in clusters
Exams & Tests
Your health care provider will look at the growths to determine if you have the condition. You may need a skin biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment Of Seborrheic Keratosis
You usually DO NOT need treatment unless growths get irritated or affect your appearance.
Growths may be removed with surgery or freezing (cryotherapy).
