Seborrheic keratosis is a brown to black benign or non-cancerous tumor that develops as the skin ages. Also called "senile warts," they are more likely to appear after the age of 40s. Unlike age spots, they have a slightly raised appearance. They are not accompanied by pain or itching.
A raised area of skin ranging from a few millimeters to several centimeters in size is called a "wart" or "birthmark" and there are a variety of types. In many cases, what you thought were "warts" are actually "moles" or "cysts”. Some types of warts are caused by viruses.
The treatment depends on the type of wart. Some may be malignant tumors, so accurate diagnosis by a doctor is important.
Symptoms of Seborrheic Keratosis
Seborrheic keratosis is a benign tumor that results from aging skin. It is brown to black in color and raised from the skin surface. They range in size from a few millimeters to 3cm, with some growing up to 5cm in diameter. They tend to occur on the head, face, neck, limbs and other parts of the body that are prone to sunburn.
They start to appear in people in their 40s and more common in people in their 80s. Those who often sunbathe or enjoy outdoor leisure activities may start to develop them in their 20s.
Since they are not malignant, they rarely cause pain or itchiness so can be left untreated. However, they do not disappear naturally. Many people are troubled by the appearance of these lesions on the face and other parts of the body and consider having them removed.
Causes of Seborrheic Keratosis
The causes of seborrheic keratosis are not clearly understood. It is known that they tend to appear with age but since the size, number and location of the lesions vary from patient to patient, it is thought that heredity may play a role. It is also believed that UV rays may be a factor, since the lesions are often found in areas that are easily exposed to sunlight.
The skin consists of three layers: epidermis, dermis and hypodermis. When the skin is exposed to UV rays, friction or other stimulating factors, the epidermis layer produces melanin pigment to protect the skin from UV rays. Normally, melanin pigment is expelled along with dead skin cells through skin turnover. However, when the turnover is disrupted by aging or other factors, the speed at which melanin pigment is expelled cannot keep up with the speed at which it accumulates and more melanin pigment accumulates inside the skin. When the melanin pigment accumulates, brown spots (pigmentation) are formed. Seborrheic keratosis is also a condition in which melanin pigment accumulates to the point that the skin becomes raised.
While it is difficult to prevent this lesion due to genetic factors, it can be prevented to some extent in the case of UV rays. For preventing seborrheic keratosis, we advise patients to apply sunscreen from a young age.
Difference from "warts”
The term "warts" used in dermatology is mainly used to describe those caused by viruses. Typical examples include "common warts (verruca vulgaris)" on the hands and feet and "molluscum contagiosum (water warts)" which are common in children.
Even warts that look similar may have different causes and require different treatment methods. In particular, viral warts are at high risk of worsening, so it is important to see a doctor as soon as the symptoms are noticed. Please consult with us as soon as possible.
Treatment of Seborrheic Keratosis
Since seborrheic keratosis is a benign tumor, there is basically no risk of it becoming cancerous. Therefore, there is no need to treat them. However, if you have problems such as them rubbing against your clothes or on the face or other prominent parts of the body, removing it is recommended. In addition, seborrheic keratosis can hardly be improved by using ointments or medicines that are effective for warts. Therefore, if you wish to have them removed, please consult our clinic before relying on over-the-counter medications.
Out Treatment methods
Electrocautery
We are one of the few clinics that offer excision by electrocautery. Although sutures are required depending on the size, it can be removed and the risk of recurrence is virtually eliminated.
In addition, the stitched scars will become less noticeable over time. If you are concerned about the scarring, our plastic surgeons offer the best treatment options. We also provide excellent post-operative care. Please contact us if you wish to have them removed safely.