Seborrheic Keratosis: Benign Skin Growths Often Called 'Age Spots'

Description

Seborrheic keratoses (SKs) are common, benign epidermal tumors resulting from keratinocyte proliferation. They typically appear after age 30 and increase with age.

Clinical Features

• Color: Tan, brown, black, or skin-colored
• Shape: Round, oval, or irregular; well-demarcated
• Surface: "Stuck-on" appearance, verrucous (warty), greasy, or smooth
• Size: Few millimeters to >2 cm
• Location: Face, trunk, extremities (not palms/soles)
• Symptoms: Usually asymptomatic; may itch, catch on clothing, or bleed if traumatized

Diagnosis

Clinical (dermoscopy shows comedo-like openings, milia-like cysts, fissures). Biopsy if atypical features suggest melanoma or squamous cell carcinoma.

Management

• No treatment needed unless symptomatic or cosmetic concern.
• Removal options: Cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen), curettage, electrosurgery, shave excision, laser.
• Recurrence at same site is rare; new lesions continue to appear with age.

Distinction

Not related to seborrheic dermatitis. Not precancerous. Sudden eruption of multiple SKs (Leser-Trélat sign) may rarely associate with internal malignancy.