^
Fact-checked
х

All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.

We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.

If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.

Senile keratoma

Medical expert of the article

Dermatologist, oncodermatologist
, medical expert
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025

Senile keratosis is an age-related benign change in the skin in elderly people, which manifests itself in the form of pigmented rounded lesions up to several centimeters in diameter, which are covered with layers of horny epithelium. Senile keratosis lesions are most often located on the skin of the face, neck, hands and forearms. Sometimes malignant transformation of lesions into skin cancer is possible.

trusted-source[ 1 ], [ 2 ]

Pathogenesis

Histological examination reveals hyperkeratosis with outgrowths extending into the depths, and pronounced acanthosis. The proliferating strands consist of cells of the spinous layer of the epidermis, but small cells with dark nuclei are also encountered.

trusted-source[ 3 ], [ 4 ], [ 5 ], [ 6 ], [ 7 ]

Symptoms senile keratoma

On exposed areas of the skin (face, neck, upper limbs) solitary or multiple lesions appear. First, erythematous spots appear, then limited hyperkeratosis develops in these areas. After the forced rejection of scales, pinpoint hemorrhages are formed. Scales invariably reappear and become dense.

Over time, protruding formations develop - dense plaques 1-1.5 cm in diameter, dark in color, round in shape, covered with tightly seated gray crusts. With prolonged trauma (scratches, insolation) or irrational treatment, they can become malignant in spinalioma or basalioma.

What do need to examine?

Differential diagnosis

Senile keratoma should be differentiated from verruca vulgaris, Bowen's disease, seborrheic keratosis, keratopapilloma, actinic keratosis, cutaneous horn, keratoacanthoma, eccrine poroma, follicular keratoma.

trusted-source[ 8 ], [ 9 ], [ 10 ], [ 11 ]

Treatment senile keratoma

Therapy of senile keratoses is a method of cancer prevention. Patients should be registered with a dispensary and undergo examination once every 6 months. Long-term intake of vitamin A in large doses gives good results. At an early stage, electrocoagulation, carbonic acid snow, liquid nitrogen, 25% podophyllin ointment, 5% fluorouracil ointment are recommended; if degeneration is suspected - surgical removal, as with epithelioma, with the capture of surrounding healthy skin; X-ray therapy.


The iLive portal does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
The information published on the portal is for reference only and should not be used without consulting a specialist.
Carefully read the rules and policies of the site. You can also contact us!

Copyright © 2011 - 2025 iLive. All rights reserved.