How effective is curettage and cautery for keratoacanthoma?

A keratoacanthoma can appear as a firm, fast-growing dome with a central keratin plug, but it can resemble other skin cancers. Curettage removes tissue with a scoop, and cautery treats the base with controlled heat. Whether that is suitable depends on the lesion's size, site, depth, borders, and the clinician's diagnostic confidence. The procedure may leave a scar or colour change, and clinical follow-up is needed because surface removal does not automatically prove that all concerning cells are gone.

Arrange a dermatology assessment promptly if you notice a rapidly enlarging lump, a persistent crust, or a tender keratin-filled bump. Do not squeeze, shave, or burn it at home. Tell the clinician about previous skin cancers, medicines that affect bleeding or healing, immune suppression, and any change in the lesion. Follow instructions for dressing and attend the planned review so healing and the diagnosis can be checked.

Seek prompt medical care for rapid growth, spontaneous bleeding, ulceration, increasing pain, or a lesion that changes in colour or shape. After treatment, contact the clinic if redness spreads, pus appears, pain escalates, or the wound does not heal as expected. Urgent help is appropriate for heavy bleeding that does not stop with firm pressure or for severe swelling.

Ask how the diagnosis will be confirmed, why this procedure fits the lesion's location and depth, whether another treatment is safer, what scar to expect, and how follow-up will look for recurrence.