What Causes Seborrheic Keratosis Lesions On Back And Scalp?

Posted on Tue, 25 Mar 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 25 Mar 2014 Answered on

Mon, 14 Apr 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I have been on this site regarding digestive issues, but now I asking about skin problems. I had one basal cell carcinoma, only used the cream, and one dysplastic nevi within the last 3 years. I have many keratosis types on my back and the upper torso. I also seem to have them on my scalp that is a little concerning, because they occasionally itch and appear in all sizes. I get checked every 6 months and I am due next month for another exam. It also appears my dermatologist seldom checks the scalp. He seems to check my head very carefully, along with my upper body. He also check the legs. He said I had the best exam ever on my last visit. I know I had these growths on my scalp longer than 6 months, but I it does appear I have more of them now. Not sure why he doesn't say anything about them and I will ask on my next visit. I do have a lot of hair for my age, but would should I make of this?

Answered by Dr. Praveen Rodrigues (53 minutes later)

Brief Answer: No need for any drastic interventions; Scalp exam Detailed Answer: Hi there XXXXXXX I note that you seem to have a firm grasp of the subject given you have had two issues earlier vis-à-vis basal cell carcinoma (BCC) & dysplastic nevi. The only reason I can fathom as to why your dermatologist goes easy as regards the scalp lesions is possibly because of your good hair cover that will serve as a 'protective' barrier of sorts & a natural sun-protector. Also, because of the vascularity on the scalp, these seborrheic keratosis lesions possibly erupt more frequently & in larger numbers. I don't think there is anything much to worry about unless there are obvious changes in the ABCDE rule that I am sure you are aware of by now. I would recommend that you gently broach this issue with your dermatologist when you meet up & perhaps a visit to your friendly neighbourhood barber a week before your trip to the dermatologist may be in order so that he can better 'visualise' these lesions. BCC as you know are largely locally invasive so there is not too much to worry about in between regular examinations. Relax..& do bring it up. Good Luck & Godspeed! Dr Praveen Rodrigues MD

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Praveen Rodrigues (1 hour later)

Dr XXXXXXX thanks for the quick response. I forgot to include, that since I always had a fair amount of hair, I started a treatment with a hair club, so I can try and keep what I have. Part of the treatment includes The use of Minoxidil. It has been 5 months. Could Minoxidil cause some of my itchiness and is it at all possible that this treatment could have anything to do with my digestive problems? My stomach pain started shortly after the treatments began.

Answered by Dr. Praveen Rodrigues (21 minutes later)

Brief Answer: Nanoxidil good alternative Detailed Answer: Hi there XXXXXXX Yes Minoxidil may occasionally give rise to an 'itchy' scalp. I have not encountered any patient over the last 17+ years I have been in practice who associated stomach pain with treatment with minoxidil. However, having said that, I am a firm believer that the patient's feelings are paramount. Please do stop this treatment for a month & see how you feel. This is the only way to end this impasse. As for an alternative to minoxidil, there is a new product on the market called 'Nanoxidil' that I believe is readily available in the states & may be acquired online. it is reputed to have fewer side effects & better efficacy than the parent compound. I trust this information will help arrest your issues & here's to a good head of hair sans the itch & a clean XXXXXXX of health on your mole-checks' et al. Dr Praveen Rodrigues MD

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj