SEBORRHEIC KERATOSES: What Are Seborrheic Keratoses?

Seborrheic Keratoses are non-cancerous growths of the outer layer of skin.  They are often confused with warts or moles.  They are usually brown but can vary in color from black to light tan.  The also vary in size from very small to bigger than the size of a half-dollar.  The main feature that differentiates seborrheic keratoses from other types of skin lesions is their waxy appearance. 

The exact cause of seborrheic keratoses is unknown. They become more common with advancing age, and almost everyone will develop at least a few of these growths. 

Sometimes seborrheic keratoses can erupt during pregnancy, following estrogen therapy or in association with other medications.  They are most often found on the chest and back, but can appear on the scalp, face or neck. 

These lesions can become itchy, irritated by clothing or bleed easily.  If these symptoms persist, removal is often recommended.

No topical lotions or treatments can cure this condition.  Some ways to remove seborrheic keratosis are cryosurgery (freezing), curettage (scraping the surface of the skin), or by electrosurgery.  

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