Seborrheic keratosis is a common benign skin growth that can be found anywhere on the body and is more common in older people. It poses no threat to health but can be removed for cosmetic or comfort reasons. Doctors can identify and remove them with various methods.
Seborrheic keratosis is one of the most common types of benign skin growth. Seborrheic keratoses, as they are known in the plural, are more common among older people, and many people develop these skin lesions later in life. As a general rule, a seborrheic keratosis poses no threat to your health, although some people choose to have these growths removed for cosmetic reasons or because they become uncomfortable. You may also hear a seborrheic keratosis referred to as “seb k,” as “seborrheic keratosis” is a bit of a mouthful.
These skin lesions can manifest in a variety of ways and can be found anywhere on the body. They can be brown, black, or light in color and typically start as an area of raised skin. As the lesion develops, it may protrude and cracks and fissures may appear. The growth is often rough and horn-like, although it can also be smooth, with small granules beneath the surface of the seborrheic keratosis. Sometimes seborrheic keratoses are slightly greasy to the touch, while other times they feel rough and dry.
The most distinguishing feature of seborrheic keratoses is that they appear to have been glued to the skin, or as if someone had an accident in a pottery class, splashing clay on an arm or leg. Some people call these lesions “barnacles,” because they look like barnacles and, like barnacles, they seem easy to remove. Sebks are also usually very itchy, especially in older people.
It’s a good idea to see a doctor about any skin abnormalities, to confirm the nature of the growth. A doctor can often identify seborrheic keratoses just by looking at them, but they may also order a biopsy to verify the diagnosis. It’s especially important to see a doctor if skin growths change color or shape, even if they were previously examined and classified as benign.
In some cases, a seborrheic keratosis becomes a nuisance, such as by catching on clothing or jewelry. These lesions can also look unsightly, especially on the face. In these cases, removal can be done with electrocautery or by the use of liquid nitrogen. Doctors can also shave the growth with a scalpel. Seborrheic keratoses usually bleed little, because there is little involvement with the deeper layers of the skin.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
