Seborrheic keratosis is a type of skin growth that is often harmless. While they don’t require treatment, many patients seek to have them removed.
Seborrheic Keratosis
How Can I Spot a Seborrheic Keratosis?
Seborrheic keratosis growths have a few distinct features. They are often brown and have a thick, wart-like texture. They will often be found in multiples places throughout the body and can appear almost anywhere except the palms or soles of the feet.
Are There Health Risks?
There are many different types of skin growths, and often some can look similar. One of the most challenging characteristics of seborrheic keratosis is its similarity in appearance to melanoma. While seborrheic keratosis growths do not pose a risk, melanomas do. For this reason, it is vital to have any new growths examined by a doctor. You should also visit a doctor if you are experiencing any pain, unusual coloring, or change in growth size of a pre-existing skin lesion.
Who Is At Risk?
As you age, the possibility of developing seborrheic keratosis increases. It is most commonly found in those middle-aged or older. However, the condition can also run in families and has also been linked to prolonged sun exposure.
Your Diagnosis
For those wishing to get a seborrheic keratosis removed, the first step is to have them diagnosed. This is often done through a physical examination or a biopsy. During a biopsy, a small sample is taken and then reviewed in a lab. This ensures that the growth is diagnosed correctly and rules out any risk of cancer.
Seborrheic Keratosis Removal
Though it is not medically necessary, some may choose to undergo treatment to remove the seborrheic keratosis. The removal can be accomplished with a few different methods, depending on the specific case.
- The first option may be through cryosurgery, which uses liquid nitrogen to freeze on the growth.
- Another option is electrosurgery which uses electric current to remove the growth.
- Additional options may be biopsy or curettage, performed using a surgical instrument to scrape the growth.
Your Skin Dermatology Treatment
Skin Dermatology is located in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, and offers treatment performed by Dr. Alissa Lamoureux, your board-certified dermatologist in Worcester. If you are concerned about seborrheic keratosis or are interested in seborrheic keratosis removal, contact our office today.
