I. Definition:

Seborrheic keratoses are harmless, common skin growths that first appear during adult life. As time goes by, more growths appear. Seborrheic keratoses appear on both covered and uncovered parts of the body. These growths are sometimes referred to as barnacles of aging.

II. Causes:

The tendency to develop seborrheic keratoses is inherited.

Seborrheic keratoses are harmless and almost never become malignant.

Seborrheic keratoses begin as slightly raised, light brown spots. Gradually they thicken and take on a rough, wartlike surface. They slowly darken and may turn black. These color changes are harmless.

Seborrheic keratoses are superficial and look as if they were stuck on the skin.

III. Treatment:

There is no need to treat seborrheic keratoses. The only reason to treat them is because they are ugly or getting caught on your clothing.

Seborrheic keratoses can be frozen with liquid nitrogen, cut, or burned off with an electric needle. Your doctor will suggest the method that he thinks will best remove your lesion.

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