Seborrheic Keratosis
Pronunciation: /ˌsɛbəˈriɪk kɛrəˈtoʊsɪs/
Common benign epidermal tumor appearing as waxy, 'stuck-on' growths, frequently requiring editorial attention for proper hyphenation.
Full Definition
Seborrheic keratosis is one of the most common benign skin tumors, characterized by well-demarcated, waxy, 'stuck-on' appearing growths that increase in frequency with age. Histologically composed of proliferating basaloid cells with horn cysts and pseudohorn cysts. These lesions are often multiple and can mimic melanoma, warranting careful clinical evaluation. The term requires proper hyphenation in medical documentation and should not be confused with actinic keratosis, which has malignant potential.
Usage
Usage note: Always hyphenated as 'seborrheic keratosis'; plural form is 'seborrheic keratoses'.
In Context
- "Multiple seborrheic keratoses were noted on the patient's trunk and removed by shave excision." — Clinical documentation
- "The pigmented lesion was clinically consistent with an irritated seborrheic keratosis rather than melanoma." — Dermatology consultation