Benign wart-like growths on the surface of the skin.
Alternative Names
Benign skin tumors - keratosis; Keratosis - seborrheic; Senile keratosis
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Seborrheic keratosis is a benign skin tumor . The origin is unknown. They commonly appear after age 40. They appear as wart-like growths in a variety of colors. They may appear in large numbers on the surface of the body. They are usually painless and benign, but may become irritated and itch . They may be cosmetically disfiguring and psychologically distressing.
Signs and tests
Diagnosis is based primarily on the appearance of the growths. A skin lesion biopsy may be used to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
The treatment is usually not required unless the growths become irritated or are cosmetically displeasing. The growths may be surgically removed or removed by cryotherapy (freezing).
Expectations (prognosis)
Seborrheic keratosis is a benign and usually painless condition. Removal of the growth is simple and usually does not result in scars. However, growths on the trunk often leave lighter-colored skin. The growths usually do not recur after removal, but people who are prone to their growth may develop more in the future.
Calling your health care provider
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if seborrheic keratosis is present and you desire to have the growths removed. Also call if new symptoms develop, including change in the appearance of the skin growth or development of other lesions.