Seborrheic keratosis, acanthotic type

Acanthotic describes a pattern in which the outer layer of the skin is thickened. Seborrheic keratoses often look raised, rough, waxy or stuck on, and their colour can range from light tan to dark brown. Texture and pigmentation vary between people and body sites. The label is not a substitute for examining a new lesion, particularly when its border, colour or surface is different from nearby growths.

Do not cut, burn or scrape the growth at home. A clinician can examine it with magnification and decide whether observation is suitable or removal would help with catching, irritation or appearance. Options can include cryotherapy, curettage and cautery, or electrosurgery. The method depends on thickness, site, size, skin tone and diagnostic confidence. Removal can leave temporary redness, a lighter or darker mark, or a scar, so discuss aftercare beforehand.

Book an assessment if the growth changes quickly, bleeds without being rubbed, becomes persistently painful, develops an irregular outline, or looks unlike your other lesions. Arrange review if it repeatedly catches on clothing or you are unsure whether it is a seborrheic keratosis.

Does this lesion have the typical features of seborrheic keratosis? Would examination or a sample be useful? If removal is chosen, which technique best fits its site and my skin tone?