Seborrhoeic warts (also called seborrhoeic keratoses or basal cell papillomas) are harmless skin growths that are common in older people and are often pigmented.

Despite the name, they are unrelated to sebaceous glands or viral warts. They are benign growths caused by a build-up of normal skin cells and are strongly linked to age. They usually appear after age 40, and most older people will have at least a few, while some may have many. They are not infectious and do not become cancerous.

Seborrhoeic warts can run in families, suggesting a genetic link.

What are the symptoms of seborrhoeic warts?

Seborrhoeic warts are harmless, but can be a considerable nuisance. They can itch, become inflamed, and catch on clothing. Many people dislike the look of them, particularly when they develop on the face.

What do seborrhoeic warts look like?

Seborrhoeic warts often appear small and flat but can become larger and more raised over time. They vary in size and colour, ranging from light brown to almost black, and may look as though they are stuck onto the skin. They are most often found on the torso, head and neck.

Once they appear, they usually remain, and new ones can develop over time.

How are seborrhoeic warts diagnosed?

Seborrhoeic warts are much more common than skin cancers such as melanomas, and they are usually easy to recognise.

Nevertheless, it is important that a doctor checks any doubtful pigmented lump to make sure that the right diagnosis is made.

A very dark seborrhoeic wart can look rather like a melanoma; others can cause worry by becoming inflamed or bleeding. If there is any doubt at all, part of the presumed seborrhoeic wart should be sent to a laboratory for examination under a microscope.

How can seborrhoeic warts be treated?

Seborrhoeic warts are so common that it would be impossible to treat them all routinely. Most need no treatment and are a harmless part of getting older.

• The application of creams will not clear seborrhoeic warts, although moisturisers help to decrease itching and make the seborrhoeic warts feel less rough.
• GPs or dermatologists can remove seborrhoeic warts, either by freezing them with liquid nitrogen (cryotherapy) or scraping them off (curettage) under a local These procedures are usually restricted to seborrhoeic warts that are persistently troublesome.

Always contact your GP Practice if you are worried about a pigmented spot that is changing in any way.