Introduction

Seborrheic keratoses (SKs) are classically brown hyperkeratotic papules or plaques with a warty and "stuck-on" appearance.  They are common in older adults and are themselves benign.  However, a sudden eruption of multiple SKs may be a sign of occult internal malignancy.

Risk factors

Factors that increase the risk of developing SKs include the following:

  • Older age (age >50)
  • Positive family history
  • Light skin
  • Pregnancy, estrogen replacement therapy
  • Underlying malignancy, which can cause sudden onset of multiple SKs (Leser-Trélat sign)

Etiology

The etiology of SK is not fully understood; however, it is frequently associated with activating mutations of the fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 gene.

Clinical presentation

SKs classically develop in older adults and present as brown, hyperkeratotic papules or plaques with a warty and "

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