What is seborrheic keratosis?
Seborrheic keratosis (or keratoses for plural) is a harmless growth on the skin that can appear on all adults in middle age or later. SK appears as a flat brown growth that can look waxy, rough, or “stuck-on.” They can occur anywhere on the skin, and most people develop multiple SKs. Although it is unknown why people develop these growths, they generally do not cause any concern and do not require any treatment. Occasionally, an SK may become red, itchy, or irritated.
What causes seborrheic keratosis?
Seborrheic keratoses are harmless, and people develop more of them over time. They appear on both covered and uncovered parts of the body; they are not caused by sunlight. The tendency to develop seborrheic keratoses is inherited. SKs are benign and never become malignant.
What are skin tags?
Skin tags are small fleshy outgrowths of skin that typically develop under the arms, at the sides of the neck, and the groin. They tend to appear in skin folds because there is friction of skin-on-skin or clothing rubbing.
How are SKs and skin tags treated?
Treatment of irritated seborrheic keratoses or skin tags can include liquid nitrogen or curettage (removal by scraping or scooping with a curette). If a growth is suspicious for malignancy, a skin biopsy will be performed. Seborrheic keratoses can easily be removed at our practice in Meridian. The only reason for removing a seborrheic keratosis is your wish to get rid of it or if it bothers you.
Request an appointment in Meridian, Idaho
If you have SKs or skin tags on your body that you would like to have checked or possibly removed, call (208) 888-0660 or request an appointment online. Dr. Brooks is a board-certified dermatologist with over 17 years of experience. She, or her P.A. Sammy Verner, will assess your condition and determine which treatment is best for you. Contact us today!