Kératoses Séborrhéiques: Comment les reconnaître et les traiter

Table of Contents

• Introduction: Seborrheic Keratoses and their Characteristics
• Causes of Seborrheic Keratoses
• Common Locations of Seborrheic Keratoses on the Body
• Size, Color, and Texture Variations of Seborrheic Keratoses
• How Seborrheic Keratoses Can Affect Daily Life
• Differentiating Seborrheic Keratoses from Skin Cancer
• Treatment Options for Seborrheic Keratoses
• Cryotherapy: A Commonly Used Removal Method
• Aftercare of Cryotherapy Treatment for Seborrheic Keratoses
• Conclusion

Seborrheic Keratoses: A Common Skin Growth

Seborrheic Keratoses, or "kératoses séborrhéiques" in French, are benign tumors that commonly affect adults. Unlike moles, which are composed of pigment cells, seborrheic keratoses are made up of a different type of skin cell. These growths can develop layers of dead skin on their surface, resulting in a rough, crusty, and scaly texture. While the term "seborrheic" refers to their occurrence on the upper body, seborrheic keratoses can appear anywhere on the body. They come in various sizes, ranging from as small as a pinhead to as large as five or six centimeters. The color of seborrheic keratoses varies from flesh-colored, white, pink, tan, brown, to even black. Their rough, waxy, and scaly texture gives them a distinct appearance. Almost everyone develops seborrheic keratoses as they age, with most individuals experiencing multiple growths.

These growths can be bothersome depending on their location. They commonly occur on the trunk and head, but they can also protrude and cause irritation when in contact with objects like bra straps or clothing. While the exact cause of seborrheic keratoses is unknown, some individuals may have a higher propensity to develop them due to genetic factors. Seborrheic keratoses can sometimes mimic skin cancer, as they may grow rapidly, bleed, or exhibit dark coloration. Therefore, it is important to differentiate between benign growths and potential skin cancer.

If you decide to remove seborrheic keratoses, there are two main options available: leaving them untouched or undergoing a removal procedure. The most common method for removal is cryotherapy, which involves freezing the growths off using liquid nitrogen. This treatment is also known as cryosurgery or cold treatment. Although cryotherapy may cause some stinging and discomfort during the procedure, it requires no aftercare and is typically successful. After about a week and a half or two, the treated seborrheic keratoses will slough off.

In conclusion, seborrheic keratoses are common benign growths that can be a nuisance due to their appearance and potential irritation. While they may resemble skin cancer in some cases, the majority of seborrheic keratoses can be safely left untreated. However, if desired, cryotherapy offers a reliable and effective option for removal. If you have concerns about skin growths, it is always advisable to consult with a dermatologist to ensure an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.