Seborrheic Keratosis Specialist

What is a seborrheic keratosis?

A seborrheic keratosis is the most common noncancerous tumor in older adults. Seborrheic keratosis aren't contagious and are generally harmless. Some of these growths may itch, but they're not usually painful.

Seborrheic keratosis originate from cells called keratinocytes. You may have just a single seborrheic keratosis or several of them. 

The growths may look wart-like or resemble drops of candle wax on your skin. They come in various colors, ranging from black to brown to white. The majority are brown.

Where do I get a seborrheic keratosis?

A seborrheic keratosis may form anywhere on your skin, except for the soles of your feet and the palms of your hands. You may see them on your:

• Face
• Scalp
• Neck
• Chest
• Back
• Stomach

Seborrheic keratosis may be just a fraction of an inch in size to bigger than a half-dollar.

What causes seborrheic keratosis?

Although the cause of seborrheic keratosis is unclear, the growths tend to run in families, suggesting genetics play a role. 

Sun exposure also may influence where the growths develop. However, seborrheic keratosis also appear on skin that hasn't been exposed to the sun. Scientists aren't sure why some people get these growths, and others don't. What is clear is seborrheic keratosis is more common with increased age.

When should I see a doctor about seborrheic keratosis?

It's best to contact the office of Ali Hendi, MD, if you've developed many of these growths over a short period. Your provider will want to rule out cancer.

Also, contact the office if you notice suspicious changes, such as growths or sores that bleed and don't heal properly or that grow rapidly.

Sometimes seborrheic keratosis may become irritated when your clothes rub against them. If this is bothering you, call the office of Ali Hendi, MD. The team there evaluates the growth and suggests in-office treatments to remove it. 

What is the treatment for seborrheic keratosis?

The team at the office of Ali Hendi, MD, examines the growth to determine whether it's a seborrheic keratosis or skin cancer. Your practitioner recommends removing any cancerous growths.

They may suggest one or more methods to remove the growth, such as freezing or shaving it off. They may want to inspect the tissue they’ve removed under a microscope to ensure they got all of the cancerous tissue.

You needn’t worry about suspicious growths when the team of skin cancer specialists at the office of Ali Hendi, MD, offers prompt, effective diagnosis and care. Call today for a consultation to evaluate your seborrheic keratosis.