Senile wart (verruca senilis), also known as seborrheic keratosis (keratosis seborrhoeica), is a benign epidermal tumor. Currently, this disease is considered to have a dominant hereditary tendency.

bubble_chart Clinical Manifestations

It is commonly seen in middle-aged and elderly individuals, often accompanied by seborrhea, and frequently occurs on the face, scalp, back of the hands, chest, and especially the temples. Initially, it appears as a flat or slightly raised brown papule that gradually enlarges, with a rough, papilloma-like surface and a soft texture. A greasy crust forms on the surface, which can regenerate after being removed. Some lesions show significant pigmentation. Follicular keratosis is one of the characteristic features of this condition, and there is usually no inflammation around the lesions. It can occur as a single lesion but is more commonly multiple. Most cases are asymptomatic, though occasional itching may occur. The disease progresses slowly, spreading to surrounding areas or merging into larger patches, with no tendency for spontaneous remission. Rarely, it may develop into basal cell epithelioma.

bubble_chart Treatment Measures

Generally, no treatment is needed, and stimulation should be avoided. If necessary, carbon dioxide laser, cryotherapy, or electrocoagulation can be used. Alternatively, a 2.5–5% fluorouracil ointment can be applied externally. If malignancy is suspected, surgical excision and pathological examination should be performed.