SEBORRHEIC KERATOSIS

Seborrheic Keratosis, also called ‘SK’ for short by dermatologists and plastic surgeons, is a nonmalignant, benign lesion found in the elderly commonly, which does not need treatment. Treatment by either excision is done if there is any suspicion concerning cancer, as these lesions mimic melanoma, and can fool even the best dermatologists. In addition, the can be removed by liquid nitrogen, curettage, or topical agents also, if they are a nuisance. These lesions appear as flat, black to brown papules or plaques that can slowly become elevated and scaly. They look stuck onto the skin surface, and usually have a verrucous surface, with keratotic plugs. Histologically, under the microscope, they show hyperkeratosis, keratinocyte hyperplasia, and keratotic horn pseudocytes, which appear like ‘church towers.’