Seborrheic keratosis
Description of the Disease
Seborrheic keratosis is a benign skin growth. As people age, the frequency of this disease increases. Moreover, it occurs more often in men than in women.
Causes of the Disease
The exact cause is unknown. However, researchers believe it is inheritable in an autosomal dominant manner. This means if one parent has the disease, there is a 50-100% chance that their children will also develop it.
Symptoms
Initially, a small (1-3 mm in diameter) nodule appears on unchanged skin. It can range in color from light yellow-brown to black. Gradually, the nodule increases in size (possibly reaching over 2.5 cm in diameter) and darkens. The shape can be round, oval, or irregular, with clear borders. Furthermore, the surface is uneven, resembling a wart. Although the nodule is painless, it may itch. It can be single or multiple, localized in one area, or spread out.
Forms of the Disease
Seborrheic keratosis presents in several forms:
- Common seborrheic keratosis
- Stucco keratosis
- Irritated seborrheic keratosis
- Seborrheic keratosis with squamous atypia
- Others
Diagnosis
Doctors diagnose seborrheic keratosis based on clinical symptoms. To confirm the diagnosis, they often perform a biopsy of the affected skin.
Treatment
If the lesion does not cause any discomfort or cosmetic defect, no treatment is necessary. However, if it becomes bothersome, doctors remove the nodule of seborrheic keratosis through laser therapy, electrocoagulation, or surgical excision. Additionally, cryotherapy (freezing of the nodule) may be used as a treatment option.
Source | Author Doctor Nikas Samuolis, reviewed by Prof. Virginijus Šapoka | Vilnius University | Faculty of Medicine | Head of the Department of Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Oncology