Korean J Dermatol.  2024 Sep;62(8):462-466.

A Case of Squamous Cell Carcinoma Arising from Long-Lasting Seborrheic Keratosis on a Sun-Protected Area

• Noh MG
• Han GH
• Park S

Abstract

Seborrheic keratosis is one of the most common benign growths of the skin, arising from keratinocytes within the epidermis. Unlike actinic keratosis, which frequently progresses to squamous cell carcinoma, seborrheic keratosis generally has a low risk of malignancy. The reasons for this low risk are not fully understood, but some studies suggest it may be due to the lack of mutations in tumor suppressor genes. This case report describes a rare instance of squamous cell carcinoma arising from a long-standing seborrheic keratosis located in a sun-protected area. We performed immunohistochemical staining for tumor suppressor proteins p53 and p16, as well as the proliferation marker Ki-67. Based on this case, we speculate that cumulative mutations in tumor suppressor genes might play a role in the progression of seborrheic keratosis to squamous cell carcinoma. Further studies involving a larger sample size and combining immunohistochemical staining with genomic analysis are necessary to elucidate the mechanisms underlying malignant transformation in seborrheic keratosis.

Keyword

Seborrheic keratosis; Squamous cell carcinoma