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Keratosis, Seborrheic

Michael T. Partin, MD and Karl T. Clebak, MD, MHA, FAAFP Reviewed 04/2024
 


BASICS

DESCRIPTION

  • Common benign tumor of the epidermis formed from proliferation of keratinocytes

  • Frequently appears in multiples on the head, neck, and trunk (sparing the palms and soles) of older ind...

DIAGNOSIS

HISTORY

Generally asymptomatic, but trauma or irritation of the lesion may result in pruritus, erythema, bleeding, pain, and/or crusting. 

PHYSICAL EXAM

  • Typically begin as oval- or round-shaped...

TREATMENT

  • Treatment is typically performed for cosmetic concerns but is usually not required.

  • Removal of seborrheic keratoses may be indicated if:

    • They are aesthetically displeasing or undesirable (comm...

ONGOING CARE

FOLLOW-UP RECOMMENDATIONS

Patient Monitoring

After initial diagnosis, follow-up is not usually required unless 
  • Inflammation or irritation develops.

  • There is a change in appearance.

  • New seborr...

REFERENCES

1
Marghoob AA, Usatine RP, Jaimes N. Dermoscopy for the family physician. Am Fam Physician. 2013;88(7):441–450. PMID: 24134084.
2
Wood LD, Stucki JK, Hollenbeak CS, et al. Effectiveness of cr...

ADDITIONAL READING

  • Higgins  JC, Maher  MH, Douglas  MS. Diagnosing common benign skin tumors. Am Fam Physician.  2015;92(7):601–607. PMID:  [View Abstract] ...

CODES

ICD10

  • L82.1 Other seborrheic keratosis

  • L82.0 Inflamed seborrheic keratosis

SNOMED

  • 398838000 senile hyperkeratosis (disorder)

  • 442348004 Inflamed seborrheic keratosis (disorder)

  • 446352002 Seborrheic ker...

CLINICAL PEARLS

  • Seborrheic keratoses are one of the most common benign tumors of the epidermis, and frequency increases with age.

  • While seborrheic keratoses do not need to be removed, there are many op...

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