Seborrheic keratoses

Overview

Seborrheic keratoses are a type of benign skin growth that affects millions of people worldwide. They are usually brown, black, or light tan in color and appear as waxy or scaly lesions that are slightly raised above the skin surface. These growths tend to appear gradually, often on the face, neck, chest, or back, and become more common with age.

Types of Seborrheic keratoses

There are several types of seborrheic keratoses, including:

• Classic seborrheic keratoses: These are the most common type and appear as brown or black lesions
• Dysplastic seborrheic keratoses: These are larger and more irregular in shape
• Giant seborrheic keratoses: These are larger than classic seborrheic keratoses and can be several centimeters in diameter.

Causes of Seborrheic keratoses

The exact cause of seborrheic keratoses is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to a combination of factors, including:

• Genetic predisposition
• Hormonal changes
• Exposure to the sun
• Skin damage.

Risk Factors of Seborrheic keratoses

Certain individuals may be at higher risk of developing seborrheic keratoses, including:

• Older adults.
• People with a family history of the condition.
• People with fair skin.
• People who have been exposed to the sun for extended periods.

Symptoms of Seborrheic keratoses

Preventions of Seborrheic keratoses

While there is no surefire way to prevent seborrheic keratoses, there are several steps that can help reduce the risk, including:

• Protecting the skin from excessive sun exposure.
• Using sunscreen and other sun protection measures.
• Avoiding skin damage and trauma.
• Maintaining good skin hygiene.

Diagnosis of Seborrheic keratoses

Diagnosing seborrheic keratoses typically involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, and visual inspection. A healthcare provider may also perform a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment for Seborrheic keratoses

Treatment for seborrheic keratoses typically involves a combination of topical medications, cryotherapy, and surgical removal. Options may include:

• Topical creams and lotions.
• Cryotherapy (freezing).
• Surgical removal.

When to seek medical attention ?

If you experience symptoms of seborrheic keratoses, it's essential to see a doctor promptly. Some signs that you should seek medical attention immediately include:

• Rapid growth or change in size of the lesion
• Bleeding or discharge from the lesion..
• Increased redness or swelling around the lesion.