Appearance: Can present as slightly raised and might look as if it’s superficially attached; often has a waxy look.
Size: The size can vary widely, from very small to more than an inch in diameter.
Color: Generally brown, but it can also be yellow, white, or black.
Location: It can develop on any part of the body except for the palms of hands and soles of feet. Commonly affected areas are the chest, shoulders, scalp, back, abdomen, and face.
Additional symptoms: There may be itching involved.
It's important to note that Seborrheic keratosis can be challenging to differentiate from melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer, due to their similar appearances. Any sudden or unexplained changes in your skin warrant a consultation with a healthcare professional.
The specific causes of seborrheic keratosis remain unknown to the medical community, with no definitive factors identified that lead to its development. However, there seems to be a genetic component, as individuals with a family history of this skin condition are more likely to experience it themselves. Age is also a significant factor, with the likelihood of developing seborrheic keratosis increasing as one gets older. Additionally, sunburn may play a role in the emergence of these growths. Importantly, seborrheic keratoses are not infectious, meaning they cannot be passed from one person to another.
In rare cases, the sudden appearance of multiple seborrheic keratoses may serve as an indicator for certain cancers, such as those affecting the colon or lung, although unrelated to skin cancer. If you notice a sudden growth of multiple seborrheic keratoses on your body, seeking advice from a healthcare professional for further evaluation is crucial.
