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| Fig. 59.6 Seborrheic keratosis. Typical deep-brown to black exophytic seborrheic keratosis with a 'stuck-on' appearance. This is the most common benign cutaneous growth of the elderly. |
Seborrheic keratoses are common, benign epidermal growths of the skin. In patients over age 64 years, the incidence of these growths is 88%. The pathogenesis is uncertain, but the most recent evidence suggests that they are derived from keratinocytes of the most superficial part of the hair follicle and are not derived from the epidermis, as previously thought. They typically begin appearing during middle age or later. They may be located on any cutaneous surface other than the palms and soles but are most commonly found on the face and trunk. Clinically, they present as tan, brown, gray, or black, sharply demarcated, exophytic papules that appear to be “stuck on” the skin. The surface often has an irregular contour or pebbly surface but may be verrucous or smooth (Fig. 59-6).
