Keratoses Abnormal Skin Growth

Overview

Keratoses or Seborrheic Keratoses, is a common skin growth. It may seem worrisome because it can look like a wart, pre-cancerous skin growths (actinic keratosis), or skin cancer. Despite their appearance, seborrheic keratoses are harmless. Seborrheic keratoses are usually painless and do not require any treatment.

Signs and Symptoms

Brown, black or light tan growth on the face, chest, shoulders or back, Start as small, rough bumps, then slowly thicken and develop a warty surface, Have a waxy, stuck-on-the-skin look, Ranges in size from very small to more than 1 inch across, May itch

Common Causes

Usually unknown, May have role of genetics

Risk Factors

Age more than 50 years old, Positive family history

Investigation Techniques

Physical examination, Skin tissue biopsy

Treatment and Prevention

Normally treatment is unnecessary, unless it affects cosmetically, causes irritation or bleed when rubbed against the clothes, Cryosurgery: freezing with liquid nitrogen, Curettage, Electrocautery: burning with electric current, Laser ablation