Keratoacanthoma is a crater-shaped skin tumor with keratinized material in the center.
They typically grow within weeks to 1-2 cm and disappear by themselves again.
It can be difficult to distinguish benign keratoacanthoma from squamous cell carcinoma both for the doctor who sees the patient and the pathologist who evaluates the tissue submitted when the tumor is removed.
The tumor is therefore usually removed surgically.
Keratoacanthoma usually occurs on heavily sun-exposed skin in an older person.
People with a weakened immune system or who are treated with immunosuppressive drugs have an increased risk of developing keratoacanthomas.
Most often, the dermatologist will choose to remove the tumor completely surgically in a minor operation under local anesthetic in the doctor's office.
Other treatments used are electrosurgery or freezing.
Our dermatologists help people of all ages, from newborns to the elderly, with everything from simple skin changes to serious conditions.
Our dermatologists help people of all ages, from newborns to the elderly, with everything from simple skin changes to serious conditions.
