Seborrheic keratosis

Definition:
Seborrheic keratosis is the presence of benign wart-like growths on the surface of the skin.

Alternative Names:
Benign skin tumors - keratosis; Keratosis - seborrheic; Senile keratosis

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Seborrheic keratosis is a benign form of skin tumor. The origin is unknown. It commonly appears after age 40.

The tumors appear as wart-like growths in a variety of colors. They may appear in large numbers on the surface of the body. They are usually painless and benign, but may become irritated and itch. They may be cosmetically disfiguring and psychologically distressing as a result.


Review Date: 1/11/2003
Reviewed By: Glen H. Crawford, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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