Keratoacanthoma

Keratoacanthoma is a hard single nodule that appears on the skin and grows to 1-2 cm within six weeks; it usually goes away gradually over the next few months. In men, the appearance of keratoacanthomas is more common than in women, and they form mainly between the ages of 50 and 70 years. The reason for their appearance is unknown; most often they form on the face. Although acanthomas can go away on their own, a scar usually remains on a person's skin after they disappear; therefore, in some cases it may be necessary to treat them with curettage and cauterization or excision.

Keratoacanthoma is a pathological formation that occurs on the skin and has the form of a hard nodule several millimeters in size. Keratoacanthomas typically appear on the face, but can also occur on other parts of the body.

Keratoacanthoma develops gradually over several weeks. It increases in size up to 1–2 centimeters and then disappears. However, after it disappears, a scar remains on the skin.

Typically, keratoacanthomas do not pose a health risk and go away on their own. However, in some cases, they may require treatment with curettage, cauterization, or surgical excision to remove the scar on the skin.

The cause of keratoacanthomas is unknown, but they are more common in men over 50 years of age. They develop as a result of metabolic disorders in the skin, which causes changes in the cells of the epidermis.

Keratoacanthoma: Description, causes and treatment

A keratoacanthoma is a firm, single nodule that appears on the skin and can grow to a size of 1 to 2 cm within six weeks. The nodule usually gradually disappears over the next few months. Although both sexes can develop keratoacanthomas, they are more common in men, especially between the ages of 50 and 70. They usually form on the face, but can occur on other areas of the skin.

The cause of keratoacanthomas is not fully known, but they are thought to be related to skin damage from sun exposure and have a genetic predisposition. It is possible that these factors contribute to the development of certain changes in skin cells that lead to the formation of a nodule.

Although many keratoacanthomas resolve on their own, they may leave a scar on the skin after they disappear. In some cases, treatment is required, especially if the nodule is causing discomfort or is in a visible place. Treatment usually involves curettage (removal of the nodule using a sharp instrument called a curette) followed by cauterization or excision. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and is usually performed by a dermatologist.

It is important to note that keratoacanthoma shares symptoms with some forms of skin cancer, especially squamous cell skin cancer. Therefore, if you suspect a keratoacanthoma or any other unusual skin growth, it is important to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and determine the best treatment approach.

In conclusion, a keratoacanthoma is a firm, single nodule that appears on the skin, grows over several weeks, and usually disappears over time. Although they may resolve on their own, in some cases treatment is required to prevent scarring or due to discomfort. If you suspect keratoacanthoma, it is recommended to consult a doctor for a more accurate diagnosis and treatment recommendations.