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Seborrheic Keratosis: Curettage

Topic Overview

Curettage is the use of a spoon-shaped instrument (curette) to scrape off a growth. A curettage procedure to remove a seborrheic keratosis can cause pain and usually requires a local anesthetic for pain control. Curettage may be combined with electrocautery to prevent regrowth.

Curettage is a quick treatment, but it can cause scarring. A fibrous scar (keloid) may develop after curettage treatment. A keloid can be itchy or continue to enlarge over time. Like a seborrheic keratosis, a keloid doesn't require medical treatment but may be a cosmetic concern.

Related Information

Credits

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Randall D. Burr, MD - Dermatology
Last Revised January 28, 2011

Last Revised: January 28, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & Randall D. Burr, MD - Dermatology

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