The roles of vitamin D in seborrhoeic keratosis: possible genetic and cellular signalling mechanisms.

OBJECTIVE

We review the relationship between vitamin D and seborrhoeic keratosis (SK).

METHODS

Review literature from MEDLINE.

RESULTS

Vitamin D3 supplementation can improve SK lesions. Genetics-based studies have identified the proteins that link vitamin D to SK pathology. Vitamin D also exerts its effect on SK through cell signalling mechanisms.

CONCLUSION

Vitamin D plays a role in SK. Calcitriol is the best form of vitamin D for use in patients with SK because it is the active form of the vitamin D3 metabolite and its receptors are present in the skin. Further investigation of the effects of calcitriol in patients with SK is warranted.