inflamed seborrheic keratosis

An inflamed seborrheic keratosis, also known as an irritated seborrhoeic keratosis, is a type of skin growth that has become inflamed and red. It may appear as a crusted lesion and can give rise to eczematous dermatitis around the seborrhoeic keratosis.

• The inflamed area may be painful or itchy [11].
• In rare cases, an inflamed seborrheic keratosis can be a sign of skin cancer, such as squamous cell carcinoma or basal cell carcinoma, which has arisen from cells contained within the seborrheic keratosis [14].

It's essential to consult a healthcare provider if you notice any changes in your seborrheic keratosis, including inflammation, pain, or irritation. They can assess the condition and provide guidance on the best course of action.

References: [11] - Eruptive and irritated seborrhoeic keratoses may also arise as an adverse reaction to a medication, such as adalimumab, vemurafenib, dabrafenib, 5-fluorouracil and many chemotherapy drugs. An irritated seborrhoeic keratosis is an inflamed, red and crusted lesion. It may give rise to eczematous dermatitis around the seborrhoeic keratosis. [14] - Seborrheic keratosis is a type of harmless skin growth that can resemble melanoma. Discover symptoms, risk factors, signs to see a doctor, and more. ... A growth is irritated or painful.

Inflamed Seborrheic Keratoses: Signs and Symptoms

Seborrheic keratoses are common, benign skin growths that can become inflamed in some cases. The signs and symptoms of an inflamed seborrheic keratosis may include:

• Redness and swelling: The affected area may become red, swollen, and warm to the touch.
• Pain or tenderness: Inflamed seborrheic keratoses can be painful or tender to the touch.
• Increased size: The growth may increase in size due to inflammation.
• Bleeding or crusting: In severe cases, inflamed seborrheic keratoses can bleed or form a crust.
• Itching or irritation: Some people may experience itching or irritation around the affected area.

According to [result 9], symptoms of an inflamed seborrheic keratosis may also include:

• Multiple new growths developing over a short time
• Growths bleeding, are easily irritated, or painful

It's essential to note that while inflamed seborrheic keratoses can be uncomfortable, they are not typically cancerous. However, if you experience any of these symptoms, it's crucial to consult with a dermatologist for proper evaluation and treatment.

[Source: result 9 - What are symptoms of a seborrheic keratosis?]

Diagnostic Tests for Inflamed Seborrheic Keratosis

Inflamed seborrheic keratoses can be diagnosed through a combination of clinical examination and diagnostic tests. Here are some of the common diagnostic tests used to confirm the diagnosis:

• Clinical Examination: A healthcare provider can often diagnose inflamed seborrheic keratosis based on its appearance, location, and symptoms. The growths typically appear as brown, black, or light tan spots on the skin that may be itchy, red, or inflamed.
• Biopsy: If the diagnosis is not clear, a biopsy may be necessary to rule out other conditions such as skin cancer. A biopsy involves taking a sample of tissue from the growth and examining it under a microscope for abnormal cell growth.
• Microscopic Examination: In some cases, a healthcare provider may use a microscope with a light to get a better view of the spot and confirm the diagnosis.

According to [6], if your doctor isn't sure if you have seborrheic keratosis, they might use a microscope with a light to get a better view of the spot. If they need more information, a biopsy may be necessary.

Additionally, a biopsy can help confirm the diagnosis by examining the tissue sample under a microscope for abnormal cell growth. This is especially important if the growth is suspicious or has changed in appearance [9].

In some cases, a pathologist will examine the biopsy sample under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.

References:

[6] by Google Scholar: If your doctor isn't sure if you have seborrheic keratosis, they might use a microscope with a light to get a better view of the spot. If they need more information, a biopsy may be necessary. [9] by J Garner · 2020 — According to BMJ Best Practice, SKs should be diagnosed clinically but, biopsy can be considered if the lesion is suspicious (in the presence of ...).

Treatment Options for Inflamed Seborrheic Keratoses

Inflamed seborrheic keratoses can be treated with various medications to reduce inflammation and discomfort. Here are some common drug treatments:

• Hydrocortisone creams: Over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams or ointments can help reduce inflammation and itching associated with inflamed seborrheic keratoses [3].
• Dexamethasone: A corticosteroid that reduces inflammation and can be used to manage irritation or swelling associated with seborrheic keratosis treatments [12].
• Topical antibiotics: In some cases, topical antibiotics may be prescribed to treat secondary bacterial infections that can occur in inflamed seborrheic keratoses [9].

It's essential to note that these treatments are usually used to manage symptoms and reduce discomfort rather than cure the condition. If you're experiencing persistent or severe inflammation, it's best to consult a dermatologist for further guidance.

References:

• [3] - Hydrocortisone creams can help reduce inflammation and itching associated with inflamed seborrheic keratoses.
• [9] - Topical antibiotics may be prescribed to treat secondary bacterial infections that can occur in inflamed seborrheic keratoses.
• [12] - Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation and can be used to manage irritation or swelling associated with seborrheic keratosis treatments.

Inflamed Seborrheic Keratosis Differential Diagnosis

An inflamed seborrheic keratosis can be challenging to diagnose due to its similarity in appearance to other skin conditions. The differential diagnosis for an inflamed seborrheic keratosis includes:

• Malignant Melanoma: An inflamed seborrheic keratosis may be confused with a malignant melanoma, especially if it is irregular and ulcerated [8].
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): The clinical features of an inflamed seborrheic keratosis can mimic those of SCC, making differential diagnosis essential [3].
• Verruca Vulgaris: An inflamed seborrheic keratosis may be confused with verruca vulgaris, especially if it shows koilocytes and inward bending rete [2].
• Actinic Keratoses: Inflamed seborrheic keratosis can also be mistaken for actinic keratoses, which are precancerous lesions caused by sun exposure.
• Pigmented Basal Cell Carcinomas: The clinical features of an inflamed seborrheic keratosis may also resemble those of pigmented basal cell carcinomas.

Key Features to Consider

When considering the differential diagnosis for an inflamed seborrheic keratosis, it is essential to note the following key features:

• Irregular and Ulcerated Appearance: An inflamed seborrheic keratosis that is irregular and ulcerated may be more likely to be confused with a malignant melanoma or SCC.
• Koilocytes and Inward Bending Rete: The presence of koilocytes and inward bending rete in an inflamed seborrheic keratosis may suggest verruca vulgaris.
• Solar Lentigo: An inflamed seborrheic keratosis may also be mistaken for solar lentigo, especially if it shows pigmentation.

Clinical Considerations

When evaluating an inflamed seborrheic keratosis, clinicians should consider the following clinical features:

• Age and Sex: Inflamed seborrheic keratoses are more common in older adults.
• Location: Inflamed seborrheic keratoses can occur anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on sun-exposed areas.
• Size and Shape: The size and shape of an inflamed seborrheic keratosis can vary, but it is often larger than 1 cm in diameter.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the differential diagnosis for an inflamed seborrheic keratosis includes a range of skin conditions that may mimic its clinical features. Clinicians should carefully evaluate the key features and clinical considerations to ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment.