Abstract
Seborrheic Keratoses (SKs) are one of the most common dermatologic lesions seen by dermatologists. They are biologically benign and do not usually require removal for medical reasons; however, many patients choose removal due to cosmetic preferences. Currently, cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen spray) is the most common mode of removal [1]. Although patients often desire an effective topical treatment, few have been developed that rival the effects of cryotherapy. This article aims to review current available topical treatments, with a particular focus on both the benefits and potential pitfalls of a novel treatment, concentrated Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2).
Highlights
Seborrheic Keratosis (SK) is one of the most common benign epidermal tumors seen by dermatologists
This highly concentrated hydrogen peroxide is made in three steps: isopropyl alcohol autoxidation, hydrogen peroxide extraction, and acetone extraction. In addition to these main three steps, there are concurrent steps that lead to the explosive nature of H2O2, so this process must be very carefully controlled [19]. Taking all of this into consideration, while concentrated hydrogen peroxide may at first brush seem like an easy and reasonable topical fix for SKs, much more thought must go into employing proper safety measures before the topical is released in prescription form or even widely used by physicians
Topical treatments for SKs have historically varied in their efficacy and desirable results
Summary
Seborrheic Keratosis (SK) is one of the most common benign epidermal tumors seen by dermatologists. SKs are composed of an accumulation of senescent epidermal cells that have been arrested in the G1 phase of the cell cycle Apoptosis of these cells is inhibited by p16 (a cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor) which is overexpressed in all SK lesions [3]. They typically present as well demarcated, slightly elevated patches or plaques that range in color from flesh-toned to gray, brown, or black [1, 2]. Variation in this presentation does exist, and may suggest a variety of benign or malignant lesions, or inflammatory eruptions. A majority of the time, removal is not indicated and treatment is completed for cosmetic purposes
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