Seborrheic keratosis (SK) is a common, benign skin condition. SKs typically appear as brown or black spots on the face and body and are often described as looking like warts, moles, or barnacles. Although they can sometimes be disfiguring or itchy, they are harmless and usually don’t require any treatment. However, if you notice any changes in an SK’s color or shape, see a doctor or a plastic surgeon right away to have it checked out. With proper care and monitoring, most seborrheic keratosis can be managed without issue.
Here, we will discuss the causes of SKs, the available treatment options for managing them and some tips to help reduce their appearance.
History and Definition
Seborrheic keratosis (SK) is a common, benign skin growth that typically appears as a raised, scaly, or wart-like lesion on the face, chest, back or other areas of the body. It is characterized by hyperkeratosis, or thickening of the outer layer of skin, and has a waxy or slightly greasy appearance.
The exact cause of seborrheic keratosis is not known, but it is believed to be related to genetic factors and/or exposure to UV light. SKs can occur in people of all ages, but they are most common in middle-aged and elderly individuals.
The phenomenon of eruptive seborrheic keratoses was first documented by Dr. Murray Williams in 1956, who reported four cases of patients with eczematous dermatoses (skin inflammation) who developed multiple SK-like lesions. This is a rare condition characterized by the sudden appearance of numerous SKs over a short period of time. The exact cause of eruptive seborrheic keratoses is not known, but it is believed to be related to hormonal changes, immunological factors, or other underlying medical conditions.
Symptoms
Seborrheic keratosis (SK) typically does not cause any symptoms or discomfort, but some people may experience the following:
- Raised lesion: The SK appears as a raised growth on the skin, which can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters.
- Waxy or greasy appearance: The SK may have a slightly greasy or waxy appearance.
- Scaly or wart-like: The SK may appear scaly or wart-like, with a rough or grainy texture.
- Color variation: SKs can range in color from light tan to black, and may have a mixture of colors within the same lesion.
- Itching or irritation: In some cases, SKs may become itchy or irritated, especially if they are rubbed or scratched.
Skin growth should be evaluated by a doctor or a plastic surgeon to rule out any potentially harmful conditions.
Causes
The exact cause of seborrheic keratosis (SK) is unknown, but several factors are thought to play a role:
- Genetics: SK is believed to have a genetic component, as it is often seen in families and may run in families.
- Age: SK is more common in middle-aged and elderly individuals.
- Exposure to UV light: Long-term exposure to UV light from the sun or tanning beds may increase the risk of developing SKs.
- Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy or menopause, may play a role in the development of SKs.
- Other underlying medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease or liver disease, have been associated with an increased risk of developing SKs.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of seborrheic keratosis (SK) is typically made by a physical examination of the skin growth by a doctor or a plastic surgeon. In most cases, a doctor can diagnose SK based on its appearance alone. However, in some cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
A skin biopsy involves removing a small piece of the SK for examination under a microscope. This can help determine if the growth is benign (non-cancerous) or if it is a different type of skin growth that may require further treatment.
The following diagnostic methods may be used to diagnose SK:
- Physical examination: A doctor will examine the skin’s growth and look for characteristic features, such as its raised, scaly, or wart-like appearance.
- Skin biopsy: If the diagnosis is uncertain, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
- Dermatoscopy: This is a non-invasive diagnostic tool that uses a special magnifying lens to examine skin growth and help determine its nature.
A doctor may also ask about a person’s medical history and perform other tests, such as a blood test, to rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to the development of SKs.
Treatment
Seborrheic keratosis is a skin condition that can be treated through several methods. The most common treatments include cryotherapy (freezing with liquid nitrogen), electrodessication (burning with a heated needle), and curettage (scraping with a curette). Your doctor or plastic surgeon will recommend the best treatment option for your specific case.
Surgical Procedures for Seborrheic Keratosis
Electrodessication and curettage are surgical procedures that can be used to remove the seborrheic keratosis. The procedures involve using a local anesthetic to numb the area and then using electrodessication or curettage to remove the growth.
After the procedure, the skin may be red and have a small scab. This should heal within 1-2 weeks and the skin may also be slightly lighter in color where the growth was removed. To prevent further discoloration, it is recommended to limit sun exposure. Your doctor will provide you with specific aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
Risk Factors
Seborrheic keratosis is a benign skin condition that affects many people, but some individuals may be at a higher risk for developing it. The following are some of the risk factors for seborrheic keratosis:
- Age: The risk of developing seborrheic keratosis increases with age.
- Sun exposure: A history of excessive sun exposure is a risk factor for developing seborrheic keratosis.
- Genetics: There is a genetic component to the development of seborrheic keratosis, so individuals with a family history of the condition may be at a higher risk.
- Fair skin: People with fair skin are at a higher risk of developing seborrheic keratosis compared to those with darker skin.
- Immune suppression: Individuals with a weakened immune system, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or organ transplant recipients, may be at a higher risk for developing seborrheic keratosis.
It’s important to remember that these are only risk factors and not everyone with these characteristics will develop seborrheic keratosis. If you have any concerns about the development of seborrheic keratosis or any other skin condition, it’s best to consult with a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon for surgery.
Complications
Seborrheic keratosis is a benign skin condition, but in rare cases, it can lead to complications. Some of the potential complications include:
- Cancerous transformation: Although seborrheic keratosis is not cancerous, in rare cases, it can undergo malignant transformation into squamous cell carcinoma.
- Infection: If a seborrheic keratosis is scratched or traumatized, it can become infected, leading to pain, redness, and swelling.
- Scarring: If a seborrheic keratosis is removed using a surgical procedure, there is a small risk of scarring.
- Discoloration: The skin may be discolored in the area where the seborrheic keratosis was removed, particularly if the patient has a history of excessive sun exposure.
- Recurrence: In rare cases, seborrheic keratosis can reoccur after it has been removed.
If you have any concerns about the potential complications of seborrheic keratosis or any other skin condition, it’s best to consult with a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon for surgery. They can provide you with the information and guidance you need to make informed decisions about your skin health.
When to See a Doctor
Seborrheic keratosis is a common skin condition that is generally benign and does not require medical intervention. However, there are some cases in which it may be necessary to see a doctor. The following are some of the reasons you may need to seek medical attention for seborrheic keratosis:
- Changes in appearance: If a seborrheic keratosis changes in appearance, such as becoming larger or darker, it is important to seek medical attention.
- Bleeding: If a seborrheic keratosis begins to bleed, it may be a sign of a more serious underlying condition and should be evaluated by a doctor.
- Pain or discomfort: If a seborrheic keratosis is painful or causing discomfort, it may be necessary to seek medical attention.
- Concern about appearance: If a seborrheic keratosis is affecting your self-esteem or causing concern about its appearance, it may be worth discussing treatment options with a doctor.
- Diagnostic uncertainty: If you are unsure whether a skin growth is a seborrheic keratosis or another type of skin lesion, it is important to seek a medical evaluation to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
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While seborrheic keratosis is generally benign and does not require medical intervention, some people may choose to have them removed for cosmetic or comfort reasons. There are several treatment options available for seborrheic keratosis, ranging from topical medications to surgical removal.
Consultation
Schedule a consultation with a plastic surgeon or a dermatologist to have your seborrheic keratosis evaluated. They will perform a visual examination and may take a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment Options
Based on the size, location, and appearance of the seborrheic keratosis, your doctor will discuss the various treatment options available to you. These may include topical medications, cryotherapy, curettage, or excision.
Preparation
If you decide to proceed with surgical treatment, such as excision, your doctor will provide you with instructions on how to prepare for the procedure. This may include stopping certain medications and avoiding sun exposure.
Surgery
The surgical procedure for removing a seborrheic keratosis typically involves the following steps:
- Numbing the area: The doctor will numb the area around the seborrheic keratosis with a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort during the procedure.
- Removing the growth: The doctor will then use a scalpel or electrosurgical instrument to remove the growth. They may shave the growth off with a scalpel, scrape it off with a curette, or use an electrosurgical device to burn it off.
- Stitching the wound: If the removal of the seborrheic keratosis results in a wound, the doctor may stitch it closed. This depends on the size and location of the wound, as well as the preference of the doctor.
- Aftercare: The doctor will provide you with instructions on how to care for the treated area. This may include keeping the area clean and dry, avoiding sun exposure, and avoiding activities that could cause friction or irritation. Your doctor will schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your healing and evaluate the results of the treatment.
The specifics of the surgical procedure for removing seborrheic keratosis may vary depending on the size, location, and appearance of the growth, as well as the preference of the doctor. Your dermatologist or plastic surgeon will discuss the specifics of your procedure with you before the procedure and will be available to answer any questions or concerns you may have.
Conclusion
Seborrheic keratosis is a common skin condition characterized by growths that appear on the face, neck and other parts of the body. While seborrheic keratosis is generally benign, some people may choose to have them removed for cosmetic or comfort reasons. There are several treatment options available, including topical medications, cryotherapy, curettage, excision, and more.
The specifics of the treatment plan will depend on the size, location, and appearance of the seborrheic keratosis, as well as the preference of the patient and doctor. If you have concerns about seborrheic keratosis, it’s important to schedule a consultation with a plastic surgeon or a dermatologist to discuss your options and determine the best course of action.
BOOK AN APPOINTMENT TODAY
If you are considering seborrheic keratosis treatment, look no further than Dr. Colin Hong – one of the top plastic surgeons in Toronto with over 35 years of experience. He offers some of the most affordable costs for Cosmetic, Plastic, and Reconstructive surgeries and treatments for seborrheic keratosis in Toronto, North York, and Markham.
Dr. Hong is an experienced professional who understands the concerns of undergoing a cosmetic surgery procedure, which is why he strives to provide high-quality care and exceptional service to all his patients. His team will guide you through every step of your journey so that you can relax knowing everything is taken care of.
To book an appointment with Dr. Hong, please call us at (416) 222-6986 or email us at info@drcolinhong.com. Please also provide your full name, email address, and phone number to ensure we can reach you as soon as possible. It is important to obtain a referral from your family doctor before booking the appointment for seborrheic keratosis treatments with Dr. Colin Hong.
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