What should you know about irritated seborrheic keratosis?

An irritated seborrheic keratosis may become itchy, tender, red, or crusted after friction, scratching, or catching on clothing, so a changing lesion should be examined. Seborrheic keratoses are raised growths with a waxy, rough, or stuck-on appearance, but inflammation can make their usual features harder to see.

A growth can be rubbed by collars, jewellery, belts, or repeated scratching. That trauma may cause surface scaling or a small amount of bleeding. Irritation does not by itself identify the cause, and other lesions can resemble a seborrheic keratosis. A dermatologist may examine the spot with magnification and decide whether sampling is needed.

Keep the area clean, avoid picking or shaving over it, and reduce contact with rough fabric. Do not try to burn or cut it away at home. If removal is appropriate after examination, options can include freezing with cryotherapy, scraping with curettage and cautery, or electrosurgery. The method depends on thickness, location, appearance, and your skin's healing tendency.

Arrange an appointment for a new or changing growth, especially if it repeatedly bleeds, develops persistent crust, becomes painful, or differs from nearby lesions. Seek prompt care for rapidly spreading redness, pus, fever, or sudden marked swelling. Do not delay assessment while trying several home products.

Ask whether the diagnosis is certain, whether the lesion should be photographed or sampled, and which removal method best suits its site. Discuss wound care, pigment changes, scarring, pain control, and what to do if it grows back.