Keratoacanthoma

Keratoacanthoma (KA) is a comparatively common low-grade malignancy that originates in the pilosebaceous glands. Keratoacanthoma is now considered and treated by many as a malignant growth. Sun exposure appears to be the major factor conducing to KAs. At first it may resemble as a small pimple or boil and may be squeezed but is noticed to have a solid core. It then grows frequently and by the time it is brought to the cognizance of the doctor may be up to 2cm in diameter. These skin tumors grow from the hair follicle and usually grow rapidly.

KA is featurised by rapid growth over a few weeks to months, followed by spontaneous resolution over 4-6 months in most cases. They are more common in men. In a few weeks the tumor may swiftly expand to 1 or 2?cm and develop a central keratin-filled crater that is frequently filled with crust. The growth reminisces its smooth surface, unlike a squamous cell carcinoma. A Keratoacanthoma lesion, also pronounced "KA" by dermatologists, contains keratin and may look much like a red or pink volcano with an eruptive central plug of compact or breaking scale.

Factors which may subscribe to keratoacanthoma include: immunocompromised status, trauma, and genetic predisposition. KA reportedly progresses, though rarely, to aggresive or metastatic carcinoma; therefore, aggressive surgical treatment often is advocated. KA infrequently shows as multiple tumors and may enlarge (5-15 cm), become invasive locally, or rarely, metastasise. Keratoacanthoma is also fairly commonly seen on the crown of heads. Its hallmarks are rapid growth, about an inch within weeks, furthered by a stable stationary period.

Some keratoacanthomas appear to be associated to infection with human papilloma virus, the cause of warts. The limbs, specifically the sun-exposed hands and arms, are the most common site; the trunk is the second most common site, but KA may occur on any skin surface, including the anal area. They frequently cringe within six months, which pushes out the center plug of keratin and may leave behind a depressed scar. KAs are more common in fair than in dark-skinned individuals.

Causes of Keratoacanthoma

The common causes and risk factor's of Keratoacanthoma include the following:

• Sunlight is supposed to be a factor in the development of keratoacanthomas.
• Several chemical carcinogens (cancer-causing chemicals).
• Many keratoacanthomas appear to be linked to infection with human papilloma virus, the cause of warts.
• Trauma, genetic factors and immunocompromised status have also been related.
• Sometimes minor trauma to the skin occurs prior to the development of a keratoacanthoma.
• Keratoacanthomas are more common in people who smoke.

Symptoms of Keratoacanthoma

Some sign and symptoms related to Keratoacanthoma are as follows:

• A small round skin-coloured or a bit reddish bump.
• Most KAs occur on sun-exposed areas of the skin, with the greatest site of episode on the face and neck.
• Cup-shaped lesion with a central mass of keratin.
• Base of the lesion is well delimitated from the adjacent dermis by inflammatory response.
• Usually, keratoacanthoma occur alone, but may frequently develop into multiple lesions.

Treatment of Keratoacanthoma

Here is list of the methods for treating Keratoacanthoma:

• Keratoacanthomas are treated by removing the growth.
• If a keratoacanthoma is small it may be treated by freezing with liquid nitrogen with a spray or on a cotton wool swab.
• Although lotions and ointments do not help to unravel this growth, if surrounding tissue is cracked, irritated or inflamed, the vet may opt to treat with applications of an antimicrobial ointment.
• Systemic retinoids, such as isotretinoin, are a consideration for patients with lesions too numerous for surgical intervention.
• Sometimes a large keratoacanthoma is treated by radiotherapy.

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