Seborrheic Keratosis
Pronunciation: seb-oh-REE-ik ker-ah-TOH-sis
A benign, superficial epidermal growth characterised by a waxy, 'stuck-on' appearance, commonly treated in cosmetic dermatology by cryotherapy, laser, or curettage.
Full Definition
Seborrhoeic keratoses (SKs) are among the most common benign skin lesions in adults, presenting as well-demarcated, pigmented, waxy plaques that appear affixed to the skin surface. Although entirely benign, they are frequently addressed in cosmetic dermatology for aesthetic reasons. Treatment options documented in clinical records include cryotherapy, ablative laser, electrodesiccation, and curettage. Editors should note the variant spellings: 'seborrhoeic' (British English) and 'seborrheic' (American English); consistency within a document is essential. The plural is 'seborrhoeic keratoses' (not 'keratosises').
Usage
Usage note: Confirm whether the document uses British ('seborrhoeic') or American ('seborrheic') spelling and apply consistently. Plural is 'keratoses'. Avoid informal synonyms in clinical or regulatory copy.
In Context
- "The patient's treatment plan included cryotherapy for three seborrhoeic keratoses on the dorsal forearm." — Clinical treatment record
- "Use 'seborrhoeic keratosis' (British spelling) consistently throughout the journal supplement; the author alternated spellings." — Copy-editing note