What is seborrhoeic keratosis?
Seborrhoeic keratosis is a common, non-cancerous skin growth that typically appears as a brown, black, or pale growth on the face, chest, shoulders, or back. These growths are often mistaken for warts, moles, or skin cancer, but they are harmless and generally require no treatment unless they cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns.
Causes of seborrhoeic keratosis
The exact cause of seborrhoeic keratosis is unknown, but several factors may contribute to its development:
- Genetics: It often runs in families, suggesting a hereditary component.
- Age: It is more common in older adults, typically appearing after the age of 40.
- Sun exposure: While not directly caused by sun exposure, UV light may play a role in the development of these growths.
Symptoms of seborrhoeic keratosis
Seborrhoeic keratosis presents with distinctive features:
Appearance: They often look waxy or wart-like, with a slightly elevated and well-defined edge. The surface can be smooth, rough, or slightly raised, resembling a plastered-on appearance.
Colour: The color ranges from light tan to black, and the growths can vary in size from very small to more than an inch across.
Location: They commonly occur on the face, chest, shoulders, or back but can appear anywhere on the body except for the palms and soles.
Texture: These growths may be scaly, rough, or feel like a scab. They can be flat or slightly raised, and in some cases, they might be irritated by friction from clothing.
Although seborrhoeic keratosis is benign, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider if:
A growth changes in size, color, or shape.
The growth becomes irritated or bleeds.
You’re unsure whether the growth is seborrhoeic keratosis or something more serious, like skin cancer.
Treatments for seborrhoeic keratosis
A dermatologist can usually diagnose seborrhoeic keratosis by examining the skin. If there’s any doubt about the diagnosis, a biopsy may be performed to rule out other conditions. Treatment for seborrhoeic keratosis is generally not necessary unless the growths cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns. Common treatment methods include:
Cryotherapy: Freezing the growth with liquid nitrogen to remove it.
Curettage: Scraping the skin’s surface to remove the growth, often combined with cryotherapy.
Electrosurgery: Using an electric current to burn off the growth.
Laser Therapy: Using a laser to remove the growth, which can be effective for larger or more stubborn lesions.
While there is no surefire way to prevent seborrhoeic keratosis, maintaining good skin care and avoiding excessive sun exposure may help reduce the risk of developing new growths. Regular skin checks and wearing sunscreen can also contribute to overall skin health.
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