Leser-Trélat sign refers to which finding?

Leser-Trélat sign refers to which finding?

• A. Abrupt onset of multiple seborrheic keratoses
• B. Sudden hair loss
• C. New blue nevi
• D. Palpable purpura on limbs

Answer: (A)

The main concept is that the Leser-Trélat sign is an abrupt eruption of multiple seborrheic keratoses, which can be a paraneoplastic clue to an occult internal malignancy, most often a gastrointestinal adenocarcinoma. The rapid appearance of many SKs suggests tumor-derived factors, such as growth factors, stimulating keratinocyte proliferation. Because seborrheic keratoses are usually gradual with age, a sudden surge should prompt cancer screening and a thorough history for systemic symptoms. This sign is not about hair loss, new blue nevi, or palpable purpura—those findings point to different dermatologic or systemic processes.

The main concept is that the Leser-Trélat sign is an abrupt eruption of multiple seborrheic keratoses, which can be a paraneoplastic clue to an occult internal malignancy, most often a gastrointestinal adenocarcinoma. The rapid appearance of many SKs suggests tumor-derived factors, such as growth factors, stimulating keratinocyte proliferation. Because seborrheic keratoses are usually gradual with age, a sudden surge should prompt cancer screening and a thorough history for systemic symptoms. This sign is not about hair loss, new blue nevi, or palpable purpura—those findings point to different dermatologic or systemic processes.