Seborrheic keratosis pictures of scalp. Understanding Seborrheic Keratosis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

01.09.202307.07.2023 by alexxlab

What are seborrheic keratoses. How do they develop on the scalp and other body parts. What treatment options are available for seborrheic keratoses. How can you differentiate seborrheic keratoses from other skin conditions. Are seborrheic keratoses a cause for concern.

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What is Seborrheic Keratosis?

Seborrheic keratosis is a common, benign skin growth that typically appears during middle age or later. These growths, also known as seborrheic verruca or basal cell papilloma, are often described as having a “stuck on” appearance. They can vary in color from light tan to black and may appear waxy, scaly, or slightly raised from the skin’s surface.

The term “seborrheic” refers to the sebaceous glands, while “keratosis” indicates an overgrowth of keratin, a protein found in skin cells. Despite their name, seborrheic keratoses are not actually related to the sebaceous glands or sebum production.

Characteristics of Seborrheic Keratosis

Appear as round or oval-shaped growths
Can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters
May have a rough, warty, or waxy texture
Often develop in clusters
Commonly found on the face, chest, shoulders, and back

Can seborrheic keratoses appear on the scalp? Yes, while they are more commonly found on other parts of the body, seborrheic keratoses can indeed develop on the scalp. When present on the scalp, they may be mistaken for other conditions such as moles or skin tags.

Causes and Risk Factors of Seborrheic Keratosis

The exact cause of seborrheic keratosis remains unknown. However, several factors have been identified that may contribute to their development:

Age: Seborrheic keratoses are more common in older adults, typically appearing after the age of 50.
Genetics: There appears to be a hereditary component, as they tend to run in families.
Sun exposure: While not directly caused by sun damage, UV radiation may play a role in their development.
Hormonal changes: Pregnancy and hormone fluctuations may trigger the growth of seborrheic keratoses.

Is there a way to prevent seborrheic keratoses? Unfortunately, there is no known method to prevent the development of seborrheic keratoses. However, protecting your skin from excessive sun exposure and maintaining overall skin health may help reduce their occurrence.

Diagnosing Seborrheic Keratosis

Dermatologists typically diagnose seborrheic keratosis through visual examination. In some cases, additional diagnostic tools may be used to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other skin conditions:

Dermoscopy: A handheld device that allows for closer examination of skin lesions
Biopsy: In rare cases, a small sample of the growth may be removed for microscopic examination
Wood’s lamp examination: A special ultraviolet light that can help differentiate seborrheic keratoses from other pigmented lesions

How can you differentiate seborrheic keratoses from other skin growths? Seborrheic keratoses have distinct characteristics that set them apart from other skin conditions. They typically have a “stuck on” appearance, do not bleed easily, and have a waxy or scaly texture. However, it’s always best to consult a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis.

Treatment Options for Seborrheic Keratosis

While seborrheic keratoses are benign and do not require treatment for medical reasons, many people choose to have them removed for cosmetic purposes or if they become irritated. Several treatment options are available:

1. Cryosurgery

Cryosurgery involves freezing the seborrheic keratosis with liquid nitrogen. This causes the growth to blister and eventually fall off. This method is quick and effective but may cause temporary discoloration of the treated area.

2. Electrocautery

In this procedure, an electric current is used to burn off the seborrheic keratosis. It’s often combined with curettage, where the growth is scraped off with a special tool.

3. Laser Therapy

Various types of lasers can be used to remove seborrheic keratoses. This method is particularly useful for treating multiple growths simultaneously.

4. Topical Treatments

In some cases, prescription medications such as hydrogen peroxide solutions or retinoids may be used to treat seborrheic keratoses, especially in their early stages.

Are there any risks associated with seborrheic keratosis removal? While removal procedures are generally safe, potential side effects may include temporary skin discoloration, scarring, or infection. It’s crucial to have the procedure performed by a qualified dermatologist to minimize these risks.

Seborrheic Keratosis on the Scalp: Special Considerations

When seborrheic keratoses develop on the scalp, they present unique challenges and considerations:

Visibility: Scalp lesions may be less noticeable, especially in individuals with thick hair
Diagnosis: They may be mistaken for other scalp conditions such as psoriasis or dermatitis
Treatment: Removal of scalp lesions requires extra care to avoid damage to hair follicles
Recurrence: Seborrheic keratoses on the scalp may be more prone to recurrence due to constant friction from hair and hair care practices

How should you care for seborrheic keratoses on the scalp? Gentle cleansing and avoiding harsh hair treatments can help prevent irritation. If the growths become bothersome, consult a dermatologist for appropriate treatment options that won’t damage your scalp or hair.

Complications and When to Seek Medical Attention

While seborrheic keratoses are generally harmless, certain situations warrant medical attention:

Rapid growth or change in appearance
Bleeding or excessive itching
Inflammation or redness around the growth
Development of a large number of seborrheic keratoses in a short period
Uncertainty about the nature of the growth

Can seborrheic keratoses become cancerous? It’s extremely rare for seborrheic keratoses to become malignant. However, they can sometimes resemble other skin conditions, including some forms of skin cancer. This is why any new or changing skin growth should be evaluated by a dermatologist.

Living with Seborrheic Keratosis: Psychological and Social Aspects

While seborrheic keratoses are medically benign, they can have psychological and social impacts on those affected:

Self-esteem: Visible growths, especially on the face or scalp, may affect self-image
Social interactions: Some individuals may feel self-conscious about their appearance
Misconceptions: People may mistake seborrheic keratoses for contagious conditions, leading to social discomfort

How can you cope with the psychological impacts of seborrheic keratosis? Education about the condition can help alleviate concerns. If the growths significantly impact your quality of life, discuss removal options with your dermatologist. Remember that these growths are common and do not reflect on your overall health or hygiene.

Future Directions in Seborrheic Keratosis Research

Research into seborrheic keratosis continues to evolve, focusing on several key areas:

Genetic factors: Identifying specific genes associated with the development of seborrheic keratoses
Novel treatments: Developing more effective and less invasive treatment options
Prevention strategies: Exploring potential methods to prevent or delay the onset of seborrheic keratoses
Molecular mechanisms: Understanding the cellular processes that lead to the formation of these growths

What advancements can we expect in seborrheic keratosis treatment? Future treatments may include targeted topical therapies that can effectively remove seborrheic keratoses without the need for surgical intervention. Additionally, research into the genetic basis of the condition may lead to preventive strategies for individuals at high risk.

Seborrheic Keratosis in Different Populations

The prevalence and presentation of seborrheic keratosis can vary among different demographic groups:

Age Groups

Children and young adults: Rare occurrence
Middle-aged adults: Increasing prevalence
Older adults: Highest prevalence, with some individuals developing hundreds of lesions

Ethnic Variations

While seborrheic keratoses can affect individuals of all ethnicities, there are some noted differences:

Caucasians: Generally higher prevalence
Asian populations: May present with a variant called dermatosis papulosa nigra, typically affecting the face
African Americans: Also prone to dermatosis papulosa nigra, often with earlier onset

Do seborrheic keratoses present differently in various skin types? Yes, the appearance of seborrheic keratoses can vary depending on skin color. In lighter skin, they may appear brown or tan, while in darker skin, they can be dark brown or black. This variation can sometimes lead to misdiagnosis, highlighting the importance of consultation with a dermatologist familiar with diverse skin types.

Seborrheic Keratosis and Other Skin Conditions

Understanding how seborrheic keratosis relates to and differs from other skin conditions is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment:

Similar Conditions

Actinic keratosis: Precancerous lesions caused by sun damage
Melanocytic nevi (moles): Benign growths of melanocytes
Skin tags: Small, soft growths that typically occur in skin folds
Warts: Viral infections that cause rough, raised growths

Coexisting Conditions

Seborrheic keratoses can sometimes occur alongside other skin issues:

Eczema: May develop around seborrheic keratoses, causing itching and inflammation
Psoriasis: Can coexist with seborrheic keratoses, potentially complicating diagnosis
Rosacea: May occur in the same areas as facial seborrheic keratoses

How can you differentiate seborrheic keratosis from potentially dangerous skin growths? While seborrheic keratoses are benign, they can sometimes resemble more serious conditions like melanoma. Key differences include the “stuck on” appearance of seborrheic keratoses, their symmetrical shape, and lack of color variation within individual lesions. However, any doubt should prompt a visit to a dermatologist for professional evaluation.

Seborrheic Keratosis and Overall Health

While seborrheic keratoses are generally considered a cosmetic issue, their presence can sometimes provide insights into overall health:

Sign of Kenerastas-Hoffman Syndrome

In rare cases, the sudden appearance of multiple seborrheic keratoses (known as the sign of Leser-TrÃ©lat) may be associated with internal malignancies, particularly gastrointestinal cancers. This phenomenon is part of a condition called Kenerastas-Hoffman syndrome.

Hormonal Influences

The development or rapid increase of seborrheic keratoses may be influenced by hormonal changes, such as those occurring during pregnancy or menopause. This connection highlights the complex interplay between skin health and systemic hormonal balance.

Metabolic Associations

Some studies have suggested a potential link between seborrheic keratoses and metabolic disorders, particularly insulin resistance. While this association is not fully understood, it underscores the importance of considering skin manifestations in the context of overall health.

Can the presence of seborrheic keratoses indicate underlying health issues? While most seborrheic keratoses are benign and unrelated to other health conditions, sudden or dramatic changes in their number or appearance should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out potential underlying issues.

Natural and Alternative Approaches to Seborrheic Keratosis Management

While medical treatments are the most effective way to remove seborrheic keratoses, some individuals explore natural or alternative methods to manage these growths:

Topical Applications

Apple cider vinegar: May help reduce the appearance of seborrheic keratoses over time
Tea tree oil: Known for its antimicrobial properties, it may help prevent infection in irritated lesions
Castor oil: Some people report success in gradually reducing the size of seborrheic keratoses

Dietary Approaches

While no specific diet has been proven to prevent or treat seborrheic keratoses, maintaining overall skin health through nutrition may be beneficial:

Antioxidant-rich foods: May help protect skin from damage
Omega-3 fatty acids: Can support overall skin health
Hydration: Adequate water intake is crucial for maintaining skin elasticity

Lifestyle Factors

Certain lifestyle choices may influence the development and management of seborrheic keratoses:

Sun protection: While not directly linked to seborrheic keratoses, sun damage can exacerbate skin issues
Stress management: Chronic stress can impact overall skin health
Regular skin checks: Early detection of changes in existing growths or the appearance of new ones

Are natural remedies effective for treating seborrheic keratoses? While some people report success with natural remedies, there is limited scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness. It’s important to consult with a dermatologist before trying any alternative treatments, as some may cause skin irritation or interfere with proper diagnosis of skin conditions.

In conclusion, seborrheic keratoses are common, benign skin growths that can appear on various parts of the body, including the scalp. While they don’t typically require treatment for medical reasons, many individuals choose to have them removed for cosmetic purposes. Understanding the nature of these growths, their potential impact on quality of life, and the available treatment options can help individuals make informed decisions about their skin health. As with any skin condition, consultation with a dermatologist is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.

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Seborrhoeic keratoses

Seborrhoeic keratosis

Seborrheic Keratosis Condition, Treatments and Pictures for Adults

Who’s At Risk?

Seborrheic keratoses can occur any time after puberty, and almost everyone older than 50 has one or more of these skin growths. They may increase in number with age. Members of the same family can have an inherited tendency to grow multiple seborrheic keratoses. Men and women are equally as likely to develop them. People with darker skin colors tend to develop seborrheic keratoses less frequently than those with lighter skin colors.

Signs & Symptoms

Seborrheic keratoses can occur anywhere on the body, except for the palms, soles, and mucous membranes (areas such as in the mouth or anus). They most commonly occur on the chest and back. Seborrheic keratoses do not go away on their own, and they do not become cancerous.

They usually start as light brown or skin-colored, slightly raised areas, which can be round or oval and of varying size (usually smaller than a thumbnail, but sometimes much larger). As they grow thicker, seborrheic keratoses may become dark brown to almost black and appear to be “stuck on” to the surface of the skin. The surface may feel smooth or rough. In lighter skin colors, they may be pink or any shade of brown. In darker skin colors, they may be any shade of brown, purple, gray, or blackish.

Self-Care Guidelines

No treatment is needed unless there is irritation from clothing, such as itching or bleeding.

Note that:

There is no way to prevent new seborrheic keratoses from forming.
Some lotions containing alpha hydroxy acids, salicylic acid, or urea may make the areas feel smoother with regular use but will not eliminate them.
Over-the-counter freezing techniques are available but are usually not effective.

Treatments

Removal can be accomplished with freezing (cryosurgery), scraping (curettage), burning (electrocautery), lasers, or acids. Your dermatologist or other medical professional might conduct a biopsy if the growth looks unusual.

Visit Urgency

If a lesion on your skin is growing, bleeding, painful, or itchy, see your dermatologist or another medical professional. Similarly, consult a medical professional for any growth that is more than one color, that is dark brown or black, or that looks different than any of your other skin growths.

Seborrheic keratoses can be removed, but removal is considered a cosmetic issue and is usually not covered by insurance.

Trusted Links

MedlinePlus: Skin Conditions
Clinical Information and Differential Diagnosis of Keratosis, Seborrheic

References

Bolognia J, Schaffer JV, Cerroni L. Dermatology. 4th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018.

James WD, Elston D, Treat JR, Rosenbach MA. Andrew’s Diseases of the Skin. 13th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2019.

Kang S, Amagai M, Bruckner AL, et al. Fitzpatrick’s Dermatology. 9th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Education; 2019.

Last modified on May 30th, 2023 at 2:11 pm

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Derma Clinic Riga – Seborrheic keratosis

Seborrheic keratosis

What is this?

Seborrheic keratosis, or basal cell papilloma (it is also called “senile keratosis”) is a benign superficial skin formation. These are common skin lesions that occur in approximately 30% of patients over 40 years of age, and up to 75% of patients around 70 years of age. Sometimes found in young people. Sometimes these are separate formations, but some people have them in very large quantities (up to several hundred). For health, these neoplasms are not harmful, not contagious to other people, and do not transform into malignant tumors.

What causes seborrheic keratosis?

Despite the name, there is no connection with seborrhea and the sebaceous glands found in the skin. The reason for their occurrence is unknown. In some people, their appearance can be associated with prolonged exposure to the sun and activation in the body of the human papillomavirus (HPV, human papilloma virus – HPV ). Also, some patients have a genetic predisposition to the formation of seborrheic keratoses.

What are the symptoms and how to recognize?

In typical cases, seborrheic keratoses do not show any symptoms, except for visually noticeable skin formations. Sometimes they can cause itching, depending on the location, they can be injured by clothing and become inflamed. Mostly people do not like the appearance of these formations, especially if they are located on open areas of the skin.

Seborrheic keratosis is characterized by:

rough, keratinized surface;
color from light brown to almost black;
an increase in small, flat seborrheic keratoses in size and thickness;
localization in the chest, abdomen, back, neck and face.

How is seborrheic keratosis diagnosed?

Seborrheic keratoses are much more common than malignant skin tumors, but be aware that dark seborrheic keratoses can look like melanoma. With the help of dermatoscopy, all pigmented formations on the skin should be examined so that the diagnosis is made correctly.

How to remove tumors?

There are various methods for eliminating seborrheic keratoses, but none of them excludes the emergence of new formations.

Given the prevalence of keratoses and their benign nature, treatment is primarily cosmetic. If the formations are regularly injured, then it is recommended to get rid of them.

The most commonly used methods for the elimination of seborrheic keratoses:

cryodestruction (freezing with liquid nitrogen). Within 1-2 weeks after the procedure, the formations are exfoliated from the surface of the skin;
laser destruction. Depending on the size of the removed formations, the procedure is performed under local anesthesia or without anesthesia;
surgical excision (removal) – if during a clinical study it is not possible to exclude the likelihood of developing a malignant process (difficulty determining differences from a malignant tumor).

Prophylaxis:

there are no such means of prevention that would exclude the occurrence of seborrheic keratoses;
pay close attention to any skin growths that increase in size, bleed, change in any way. Ask your loved ones for help in assessing skin changes on the back.

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Keratosis: signs, symptoms and treatment

Keratoses (keratoderma, keratodermatosis) are a group of dermatological pathologies characterized by a violation of the normal process of keratinization of the epidermis. A patient suffering from a disease is faced with the formation of foci of rough skin on the body and limbs. Often zones of dermatosis appear on the palms and soles – relatively large areas of the dermis, devoid of sebaceous glands. The clinical picture of the pathology depends on the form of keratoderma that has developed in a child or adult.

General

Keratoderma can occur in acute or chronic forms. Based on histological analyzes of biomaterials of children and adults, doctors determine the nature of dermatoses, referring them to acquired or hereditary pathologies. The disease affecting the skin of the patient does not have a pronounced seasonality. A significant influence on the likelihood of developing a pathological process in the cells of the epidermis is exerted by race, gender, age and region of residence of a person.

Classification of keratoderma

Dermatologists distinguish three main types of keratoses:

follicular,
seborrheic,
actinic.

Dermatoses of the first type are the result of the formation of horny plugs in the mouths of the hair follicles. Seborrheic keratoderma are neoplasms in the form of nodules or plaques, painted in brown or black. Actinic keratosis is a disease that occurs in people over 60 years of age. Dermatoses of this form look like a cluster of small scaly spots.

Etiology of disease

The reasons for the development of keratoderma are diverse. Pathology can develop against the background of endocrine disorders, viral or bacterial infections, malignant neoplasms. Excessive insolation has a significant impact on the condition of the skin of children and adults. Often, pathological processes are the result of an insufficiently varied diet of the patient.

External and internal factors lead to changes in the well-established process of reproduction of epidermal cells. In the body of a healthy person, dead skin particles undergo keratinization and exfoliate. These scales are saturated with keratin and practically devoid of moisture. Keratodermatosis provokes a doubling of the growth rate of epidermal cells. The structures of the dermis of the previous generation do not have time to go through a full life cycle. Because of this, a dense plate is formed on the surface of the skin from a mixture of cells and keratin.

Symptoms of pathology

The symptoms of keratosis correspond to the form of the disease from which the patient suffers. Common signs of keratoderma of all forms are well-marked keratinization foci and excessive skin flaking. Primary neoplasms on the surface of the epidermis have different sizes, shapes and colors. Often the first manifestation of pathology is a red rash. As symptoms increase, the elements merge with each other and form a continuous hyperkeratotic surface. Typical localization sites of seborrheic keratosis are the face, neck and scalp. Follicular dermatitis often develops on the body and lower extremities. The actinic type of pathology affects the skin of the neck, back and arms.

The pathological process can proceed in dry and wet forms. In the first case, dehydrated epidermal cells form a hard, inelastic surface, which is covered with cracks. Skin flakes with residual moisture can cause erosion and weeping. In this case, a secondary infection joins the primary pathology. The launched inflammatory process can become chronic – the patient will suffer from periodic relapses.

Diagnostic measures

Confirmation of the diagnosis is performed by a dermatologist based on the clinical picture of the pathology and histological analysis data. A laboratory study of skin scrapings obtained by a doctor during an examination of a child or adult allows you to establish the form of keratosis and determine the causes of the development of the disease. Differential diagnosis gives dermatologists the opportunity to exclude seborrhea, psoriasis, lichen planus, Bowen’s disease, melanoma, and basal cell skin cancer from the patient’s history.

Therapeutic course

Treatment methods for keratosis are determined by a dermatologist based on the symptoms identified in the patient and the results of a clinical and laboratory examination. Drug therapy allows you to achieve a quick effect with a small area of skin lesions. A child or an adult is prescribed preparations based on fluorouracil – ointments or gels.

The threat of malignant degeneration of neoplasms and the development of a secondary infection in a patient can be a reason for doctors to choose radical methods of treating keratosis. Most often, dermatologists resort to cryo-, radio- or electrical destruction. Surgical removal of keratoderma foci is carried out in the chronic course of the disease and the absence of signs of tissue malignancy.

Forecast and preventive measures

Patients who seek medical help in a timely manner can expect a full recovery. The dermatologist will form a treatment plan that will prevent the transition of the disease to the chronic stage. The neglected course of dermatoses can lead to malignant degeneration of foci of pathology or the addition of secondary bacterial infections to keratosis.

Prevention of pathology involves the observance by patients of precautionary measures during their stay on the street. Excessive insolation often causes disruption of the normal processes of skin keratinization. The use of sunscreens will minimize the risk of formation of cellular keratin plaques.

Diagnosis and treatment of keratosis in Moscow

JSC “Medicina” (clinic of Academician Roitberg) has all the necessary equipment for the diagnosis and treatment of keratoses in children and adults.