Seborrheic Keratosis

What is a Seborrheic Keratosis?

Seborrheic keratosis is a common, non-cancerous skin growth seen more commonly in older adults and in patients with more fair skin types. They may appear as brown, black or light tan growths on the head or body. They most commonly appear on the face, chest, shoulders or back, and are slightly elevated. In some cases, they can become quite black and large (greater than 2–3 cms). Although seborrheic keratoses are not cancerous, they can have the appearance of skin cancer, particularly the very dangerous type of skin cancer, called melanoma.

Diagnosis and Treatment

A dermatologist is a skin specialist who can easily diagnose and, if necessary or desired by the patient, remove seborrheic keratoses through the use of a variety of treatment methods, such as:

• Cryosurgery
• Electrodessication
• Curettage
• Laser

Lesions on cosmetically sensitive areas, such as the face or neck, have a more favourable cosmetic appearance when removed with a Co2 laser.