Seborrhoeic keratosis is a benign skin lesion that appears as small spots or plaques of varying size, slightly raised above the skin surface. Their colour ranges from beige to dark brown and the surface often feels rough or waxy/gummy to the touch. They tend to increase in number with age. They are not skin cancers and do not transform into malignant tumours, but may cause cosmetic concern or discomfort if they become irritated or rub against clothing or accessories.
They are very common in fair-skinned individuals and often show a genetic predisposition. UV exposure and certain hormonal factors may promote their development. Typical locations include the back, chest, face, nape of the neck and temples, either as single lesions or multiple, sometimes associated with itching or mild local discomfort.
Treatment options
At MAVIT, seborrhoeic keratoses are removed mainly for aesthetic reasons or when symptomatic, preferably during periods with limited sun exposure. Removal is performed on an outpatient basis, sometimes with local anaesthesia, using curettage, diathermocoagulation (DTC) or CO₂ laser, chosen according to the site, number and thickness of the lesions. After treatment, small crusts form and can be managed at home with topical antibiotic cream or advanced dressings for about 7–10 days; once the crusts fall off, the skin appears smoother and the lesion is definitively removed.
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