Keratoacanthoma
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What is a keratoacanthoma?
Keratoacanthoma is a skin tumor that appears when cells in the skin form a lesion. It presents as a small dome and usually does not spread to any other part of the body. At first, it starts to grow quickly and can reach a significant size within weeks. Although keratoacanthoma will eventually disappear, it can take six months to heal and may result in some scarring.
What causes a keratoacanthoma?
Keratoacanthoma develops from exposure to ultraviolet rays, although a few cases have been correlated with human papilloma virus.
Types of keratoacanthoma
A variety of keratoacanthoma cases exist. Solitary keratoacanthomas are singular in nature, multiple keratoacanthoma can result in several lesions, and giant keratoacanthoma are excessively large. Multiple lesions in different parts of the body is called generalized eruptive keratoacanthoma, and multiple lesions in one part of the body is called keratoacanthoma centrifugum marginatum.
How is keratoacanthoma diagnosed?
Keratoacanthomas have easily diagnosable characteristics. They present as raised dome-shaped lesions with a central area of depression on a sun-exposed area. At Idaho Eyelid and Facial Plastic Surgery, we address the keratoacanthomas that occur on the face, usually on or around the eyelids. A skin biopsy can be helpful and can determine the presence of small fragments of keratin (part of normal skin tissue). These lesions can look similar to squamous cell carcinoma, a more serious skin condition.
Treatment options
Treatment varies and is dependent on the tumor’s location. If the growth occurs on the face, Mohs surgery is performed to remove the keratoacanthoma and ensure the skin margins are clear from dysplasia to prevent recurrence. If multiple keratoacanthomas are found on the skin, a prescription for isotretinoin may be useful. Steroids, methotrexate, and bleomycin have been used with some success. Patients who have a keratoacanthoma can experience recurrences over time, despite treatment.
Conclusion
A keratoacanthoma is a fast-growing, dome shaped growth that can be localized or widespread. Treatments vary depending on the location and frequency. Recurrence rates are significant despite treatment.
