What is Seborrheic Keratosis?

Seborrheic Keratosis is a particularly rare skin growth that usually appears in older adults. It is non-cancerous and usually painless.

Symptoms:

Symptoms are generally limited to the appearance of a dark brown or light tan growth that forms on the ski. It can be slightly elevated and feel scaly to the touch

Causes of Seborrheic Keratosis:

The causes of seborrheic keratosis are unclear, however there is evidence to suggest that it may be genetically passed on, and may also be the result of exposure to excessive sunlight.

How is Seborrheic Keratosis diagnosed?

Because Seborrheic Keratosis can look so similar to cancerous growths, doctors take precautions when diagnosing a non-cancerous skin condition. A visual diagnosis will generally be backed up by removal of part of the growth for microscopic examination.

How is it treated?

As the growth is harmless to health, treatment is not normally necessary, however it may sometimes be removed if it is in a particularly visible area or if it is difficult to distinguish from a cancerous growth.