A seborrheic keratosis is a common, harmless, wartlike growth that tends to increase in number with age. It is often mistaken for skin cancer, given its ability to grow to a large size and appear similar to moles.
A genetic component may play a role in the development of these spots. The condition can affect any part of the body although it mainly occurs on the chest, abdomen and back. Seborrheic keratoses can grow large and appear concerning, but in general, they do not become skin cancer.
Seborrheic keratosis can appear as single or multiple rough bumps on the skin, ranging from dark brown to white. They can appear anywhere on the body. Other symptoms include:
Itching but no pain
Because seborrheic keratoses are harmless, they usually do not need treatment. Your dermatologist may remove a seborrheic keratosis if it becomes:
At UCLA Dermatology, our specialists may use one of the following treatments to remove a seborrheic keratosis:
After removing the seborrheic keratosis, your physician may perform a biopsy on it to check for skin cancer.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (310) 825-6911.
