Seborrheic Keratosis

The exact cause of seborrheic keratoses is unknown; however, they seem to run in families. They are not caused by sunlight and can be found on both sun-exposed and non sun-exposed areas. Seborrheic Keratoses are more common and numerous with advancing age. Although Seborrheic Keratoses may first appear in one spot and seem to spread to another, they are not contagious.

Anyone may develop Seborrheic Keratoses. Some people develop many over time, while others develop only a few. As people age, they may simply develop more. Children rarely develop Seborrheic Keratoses. Seborrheic Keratoses may erupt during pregnancy, following estrogen therapy, or in association with other medical problems.

Seborrheic Keratoses are most often located on the chest or back, although they also can be found on the scalp, face, neck, or almost anywhere on the body. The growths usually begin one at a time as small, rough, itchy bumps which eventually thicken and develop a warty surface.

Seborrheic Keratoses are benign (non-cancerous) and are not serious. Unless they develop suddenly, they do not indicate a serious health problem. They may be unsightly, especially if they appear on the face. Removal may be recommended if they become large, irritated, itch, or bleed easily. A Seborrheic Keratosis may turn black and may be difficult to distinguish from skin cancer. Such growth must be removed and biopsied (studied under a microscope) to determine if it is cancerous or not.

High-Frequency Electrical Current – The growth is anesthetized (numbed) and a high-frequency electric current is used.  High-Frequency Electrical current delivers a precise spark through a micro-needle to cauterize, dehydrate, and desiccate skin growths. During the procedure the micro-needle remains above the skin surface; it does not penetrate the skin. As the growth is removed, a natural protective coating or scab develops that covers the treated area. Within a week or two, the scab will fall off and be replaced by healthy new skin cells, and will gradually take on the color of the surrounding tissue. In most cases, there is no visible indication of the previous growth.