Common superficial lesions
Some of the most common questions that patients ask dermatologists concern skin lesions. Skin lesions are remarkably common and the overwhelming majority of them are benign. However where such lesions occur on the face they can be unpleasant and cause distress to many people. Among the most common of such lesions are Seborrheic and Actinic Keratoses, and nevi (moles).
Seborrheic keratose
Of all superficial lesions seborrheic keratoses are the most common. The exact cause of seborrheic keratoses is unknown but they are most common on the sun-exposed areas of older patients, especially on the face, neck and trunk. Seborrheic keratoses are usually a brown-black color and may appear crusty or wart-like. It is not uncommon for them to ooze and bleed when irritated. Many people often mistake seborrheic keratoses for skin cancer or melanoma. Seborrheic keratoses are however completely benign with no malignant potential. Nevertheless many people choose to have them removed for aesthetic reasons. Since they are superficial they can be removed relatively easily.
Actinic Keratoses
Actinic Keratoses are flat, pink, scaly lesions that can develop in sun-exposed areas and are more common in fair skinned patients whose skin has been exposed a lot to the sun. They are most common on the ears, forehead hands neck, and nose. Over time, actinic keratoses can get bigger, thicken, and occasionally become cancerous.
Actinic Keratoses can remain unchanged for years. However they can eventually thicken, itch, and occasionally bleed. When this happens these are signs that the lesions are becoming malignant. Approximately 1 in 50 actinic Keratoses become cancerous.
Nevi
Nevi are more commonly known as moles. Moles can appear on their own or in clusters, and are usually harmless collections of pigmented cells called melanocytes. They can appear alone or in multiples. Moles are more common on the head, neck and torso and they can vary enormously in terms of size, shape, color and the amount of hair present. Moles can also be present in more obscure locations. Most of us have between 10 to 40 moles. They usually appear between the ages of 2 and 20 and some may disappear with age. Although many people are concerned about moles most rarely become cancerous. Nevertheless it is important to become familiar with the moles on your skin and if you have any concerns about them to see a dermatologist.