Conditions · Lesions & Growths

Seborrhoeic Keratosis

A benign proliferation of immature keratinocytes with a characteristically stuck-on appearance, as though it could be lifted off with a fingernail.

Mechanism

What is actually happening

Waxy, warty, sharply demarcated plaques ranging from tan to near-black. They sit above the plane of the skin rather than within it, which accounts for the stuck-on look.

The distinction

How it is told apart

Frequently mistaken for a mole because of the colour, and for a wart because of the texture. It is neither. Pigmented examples can also mimic more serious lesions, which is the reason it is examined rather than assumed.

Assessment

What is established first

Border definition, surface character, colour variation, and whether the lesion has changed. Dermoscopy is used where the clinical picture is not clear-cut.

Approach

What is typically done

Superficial removal is generally straightforward because the lesion sits above the basement membrane. Settings are adjusted for Fitzpatrick type to limit post-inflammatory pigmentation.

When treatment waits

When it is deferred

A sudden eruption of many lesions, or any lesion that is changing, is evaluated before cosmetic removal.

Frequently asked

What is seborrhoeic keratosis?

A benign proliferation of immature keratinocytes with a characteristically stuck-on appearance, as though it could be lifted off with a fingernail.

How is seborrhoeic keratosis told apart from similar conditions?

Frequently mistaken for a mole because of the colour, and for a wart because of the texture. It is neither. Pigmented examples can also mimic more serious lesions, which is the reason it is examined rather than assumed.

What is assessed before treating seborrhoeic keratosis?

Border definition, surface character, colour variation, and whether the lesion has changed. Dermoscopy is used where the clinical picture is not clear-cut.

When is treatment deferred?

A sudden eruption of many lesions, or any lesion that is changing, is evaluated before cosmetic removal.

Have this assessed

Every assessment is carried out personally by Dr Sin Yong, Medical Director. 9 Scotts Road, #12-01 Pacific Plaza.

Book My Appointment →
← All conditions we assess