Seborrhoeic keratoses

Question 1

Define seborrhoeic keratoses.

Answer 1

Seborrhoeic keratosis is a common, benign skin tumour most commonly found on the torso and forehead. The lesions clinically appear in multiples as well-circumscribed grey-brown-to-black plaques with a ‘stuck-on’ appearance. Later the plaques can become raised and may show a verrucous surface. Most lesions do not exceed 1 cm in diameter.

Question 2

What is the aetiology of seborrhoeic keratoses?

Answer 2

Seborrhoeic keratoses develop as part of skin aging. There is an association between extrinsic UV-induced skin aging and the development of seborrhoeic keratoses.

Question 3

What are the risk factors for seborrhoeic keratoses?

Answer 3

Age over 50 years

Fitzpatrick skin type I or II

Family history

Sun/UV exposure

Question 4

Summarise the epidemiology of sebborhoeic keratoses.

Answer 4

Seborrhoeic keratoses are one of the most common skin tumours.

They are uncommon in people under 30 years of age. Men and women are affected equally.

Question 5

What are the signs and symptoms of seborrhoeic keratoses?

Answer 5

Lesions appear ‘stuck-on

Localisation on torso or face

Yellow or light- to dark-brown-coloured lesions

Slightly raised, flat surface lesions

Wart-like texture

Multiple lesions

Painless

Itching (prurigo)

Question 6

What investigations should be performed for seborrhoeic keratoses?

Answer 6

CLINICAL DIAGNOSIS

(dermoscopy, biopsy and histopathological examination, reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM))

Question 7

What is the management of seborrhoeic keratosis?

Answer 7

Corticosteroids

Curretage or cautery

Question 8

What are complications associated with seborrhoeic keratoses? What is the prognosis of seborrhoeic keratoses?

Answer 8

Irritation and itching

Patients who elect for treatment are likely to see good results.