Seborrheic keratoses

Seborrheic keratoses are common noncancerous (benign) skin growths that men and women develop as they age. They may appear as one growth or as a cluster of growths, most often on the chest or back and occasionally on the scalp, face, or neck.

Seborrheic keratoses are usually brown, but their color varies between light tan to black. Their size also varies from very small to the size of a medium coin. These growths often look as though they have been pasted on.

The cause of seborrheic keratoses is unknown, although the tendency to develop them may be inherited. It is possible that seborrheic keratoses are related to sun exposure. They primarily affect men and women who are older than 30, and they are increasingly common later in life.

In general, seborrheic keratoses do not need treatment unless their appearance causes embarrassment or they become irritated by clothing. A health professional can remove these growths by freezing, burning, or scraping them off the skin. They may also be removed using a laser.

All skin growths, especially those that appear suddenly or change in shape or color, should be evaluated by a health professional to rule out cancer.