Section: Skin and soft tissue Sub-section: Benign skin and soft tissue] Curriculum: Curriculum, page 52
Definition
- Superficial non-invasive tumours that originate in the epidermis
Incidence
Seen in elderly, especially > 70yo 90% of pts ≥ 65yo have at least one
Aetiology
- Aetiology unknown
- Sun exposure is a risk
Clinical
- Multiple elevated yellowish/brown or brownish-black irregularly rounded plaques with a waxy or oily surface, that can be picked off
- Most commonly found on trunk & shoulders
- Also seen on the scalp & face
Pathology
- Benign overgrowth of the basal layer of the epidermis
- Containing an excess of small dark-staining basal cells, which raise it above the level of the normal epidermis and give it a semi-transparent, oily appearance
- Cysts filled with keratin
Investigation
Clinical Dx
Management
- Observation
- If removal desired by patient
- Shave excision
- Cryotherapy
- Currettage
- Laser
- Chemical peel
