WHAT IS SEBORRHEIC KERATOSIS?

Seborrheic keratosis is a standard, noncancerous skin lesion. Despite its unattractive appearance, it’s not dangerous. Multiple lesions are referred to as keratoses. These skin growths can differ in color, are typically oblong-shaped, and are often raised, resembling the scaly appearance of a wart or mole. They may appear anywhere on the body but most often show up on the back, shoulders, or chest. Seborrheic keratoses are not contagious and are common in middle-aged adults. Having a group of skin growths is not uncommon. Measurements of the raised growths might vary from pea-sized to quarter-sized. It’s possible to get seborrheic keratoses and basal cell carcinoma in the same area on your skin. Therefore, evaluation by a licensed professional is strongly advised. Skilled dermatologist Dr. Jay Mehta of Arizona Skin Institute in Surprise, AZ, offers comprehensive skin exams and treatment options to reduce the appearance of seborrheic Keratoses. He has served the Greater Phoenix area for years and is dedicated to helping you find the right solution for your skincare needs.

WHAT CAUSES SEBORRHEIC KERATOSIS?

The cause of seborrheic keratosis is still unknown. Many patients experience irritation due to its elevated position, but it generally doesn’t itch or cause discomfort. It’s important to know that tight clothing may exacerbate the condition, so try to avoid friction or rubbing your clothes against elevated skin lesions. Accidently scraping, scratching, or puncturing seborrheic keratoses can be painful and lead to bleeding. Although it’s normal to have marginally elevated dimensions, they might also be flush with the skin. The discoloration of seborrheic keratoses varies from white, tan, or yellow to brown or black. The texture of these skin lesions also ranges from coarse to scaly, similar to the consistency of a scab.

TREATMENTS FOR SEBORRHEIC KERATOSIS

Based on the severity of the skin condition, seborrheic keratoses may be removed by laser therapy, electric therapy, scraping, or freezing. Cryosurgery can be used to freeze lesions with liquid nitrogen and is usually very powerful. Electric therapy (or electrocautery) burns the lesions through electric currents. Patients with lighter or flat growths are advised to eliminate the lesions through curettage or scraping. After the elimination of seborrheic keratoses, the skin may be discolored, but this usually dissipates over time, particularly with good wound care. The removal of the skin growths doesn’t guarantee that reoccurrence won’t take place.

RECEIVE A DETAILED DIAGNOSIS

Visiting Dr. Mehta to identify seborrheic keratoses is strongly encouraged since it mimics melanoma in physical appearance. Our dedicated medical team strives to offer the utmost professional dermatology care. We invite you to stop by Arizona Skin Institute to schedule a consultation as well as diagnostic testing. A simple screening can relieve your anxiety and set you on the path to clearer skin. Our office is located in Surprise, AZ, northwest of downtown Phoenix.