Seborrheic keratosis

Keratosis is a skin condition manifested by excessive growth of the stratum corneum, the most superficial part of the epidermis composed mainly of keratin . Keratin is a protein produced by keratinocytes, specific skin cells. Keratosis generally encompasses all disorders of the skin that exhibit growths of the stratum corneum, resulting from various etiologies and characteristic lesions. Several forms of keratoses exist, the most common being actinic keratosis and seborrheic keratosis.

Seborrheic keratosis is the most common form of benign epithelial tumour : seborrheic keratosis never progresses to skin cancer , it is not a precancerous lesion.

It takes the form of a crust or a spot well limited and in relief compared to the cutaneous surface and is painless to the touch. Over time, seborrheic keratosis lesions tend to thicken and increase in size.

Seborrheic keratosis affects seborrheic areas, that is to say areas rich in sebum , either on the face, décolleté or back. The mucous membranes, palms and soles of the limbs are spared. Areas of chafing , such as under the bra or at the neck, are prone to seborrheic keratosis.

Seborrheic keratosis lesions can be single or multiple , but most patients tend to develop multiple lesions.

These lesions can present themselves in different clinical forms and are reminiscent of warts .

It is possible to find macules, papules or plaques, depending on the stage of their development. Sometimes they can be stalked and light brown in color, varying from yellow to brown-black. Over time, their surface becomes warty and covered with a greasy squamo-keratotic coating. The size of these lesions can vary from a few millimeters to several centimeters, but it is rare for them to be larger than one cm.

Adults over the age of 40 are most affected by this dermatosis, but it is possible to see this disease in young patients.

The pathophysiology of seborrheic keratosis is not fully understood. The identification of certain genetic mutations as well as the role of sun exposure have been identified in certain forms.

It is necessary to differentiate between seborrheic keratosis and seborrheic dermatitis , which is a chronic inflammatory dermatosis evolving by outbreaks.

In addition, be careful also to distinguish between seborrheic keratosis and actinic keratosis or ( solar keratosis ). This may constitute a precancerous lesion and requires targeted exploration.

Diagnosis of seborrheic keratosis is clinical. An examination carried out with the naked eye by your dermatologist makes it possible to find the characteristic lesions of the dermatosis.

A dermatoscope can be helpful in the differential diagnosis of seborrheic keratosis. In any case, it is essential to talk to your dermatologist before initiating a targeted examination and confirming the benign nature of the lesions.

Seborrheic keratosis lesions rarely resolve on their own. For our patients who wish to get rid of it, treatment is necessary.

The treatment of seborrhoeic warts can be carried out by liquid nitrogen (cryotherapy) or by co2 laser.

At Clinique Skin Marceau, we treat seborrheic keratosis with the Co2 laser, an ideal solution for benign dermatoses .

Under local anesthesia, the co2 laser can destroy targeted lesions in an extremely millimetric and precise manner. The cells are vaporized and a small scab will then form and then come off a few days later.

If in doubt about melanoma , surgical excision and biopsy are indicated.

It is the embarrassment that motivates patients to consult, since seborrheic keratosis is never a sign of malignancy. Depending on the location of the seborrheic lesions as well as their forms, the physical complex may be more or less substantial. When the itching is regular and severe, it is also a reason for consultation in dermatology.

For example, keratosis of the scalp can be particularly troublesome.

The treatment of seborrheic keratosis provides relief to the patient.