Irritated Seborrheic Keratosis on the Upper Back Treated with Cryotherapy
At Village Dermatology in Katy and Houston, Texas, we frequently treat patients with benign but bothersome skin growths such as seborrheic keratoses. While these lesions are noncancerous, they can become irritated, itchy, or inflamed, prompting treatment for comfort and cosmetic reasons. This case highlights a 60-year-old male with an irritated seborrheic keratosis successfully treated with liquid nitrogen.
Patient Presentation
A 60-year-old male presented as an established patient with a new lesion on the left upper back. The lesion had been present for one week, was moderate in severity, and caused irritation and itching. He reported no prior treatment.
He attended the visit accompanied by his wife.
Dermatologic Examination
A focused examination of the back was performed using a dermatoscope.
Findings included:
Irritated Seborrheic Keratosis: Inflamed, crusted papule located on the left superior medial upper back.
Associated pruritus and mild inflammation in the surrounding skin.
No suspicious or malignant lesions were noted.
Impression and Plan
Diagnosis: Irritated Seborrheic Keratosis (L82.0)
Seborrheic keratoses are common, benign, wart-like growths that may appear anywhere on the body. Although harmless, they can become symptomatic due to friction, trauma, or inflammation.
Treatment:
Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen was performed on the symptomatic lesion.
One lesion was treated on the left medial upper back.
Consent obtained after reviewing risks including blistering, pigment changes, incomplete removal, and infection.
Counseling:
The patient was informed that irritated seborrheic keratoses can be effectively treated with cryotherapy.
Advised that mild crusting or redness is normal during healing.
Instructed to contact the office if the lesion fails to resolve or if there are concerning symptoms such as persistent tenderness or infection.
Key Takeaway
This case highlights the effectiveness of cryotherapy for treating irritated seborrheic keratoses. Even though these lesions are benign, treatment can provide relief from discomfort and improve skin appearance.
At Village Dermatology in Katy and Houston, TX, we offer expert evaluation and treatment for a variety of benign skin growths, including seborrheic keratoses, cherry angiomas, and lentigines.
