What should you know about solitary keratoacanthoma?

A solitary keratoacanthoma often begins as a firm spot and develops into a dome-shaped nodule with a central keratin plug. It commonly appears on sun-exposed skin and may be tender, though appearance and behaviour vary.

Sun-damaged skin can provide a background for these growths. The visual overlap with squamous cell carcinoma means that a clinician cannot safely rely on appearance alone. A biopsy or complete removal may be recommended so the tissue can be examined.

Arrange a prompt dermatology appointment and record the date you noticed the growth, how quickly it changed and whether it bleeds or hurts. Do not cut it off, squeeze it or apply an unprescribed chemical treatment.

Treatment is usually planned around removing or sampling the growth. Options may include surgical excision or curettage and cautery, depending on its size, location, clinical appearance and the clinician's assessment. Protect the area from further sun exposure while awaiting care.

Seek timely medical assessment for any rapidly enlarging, bleeding, crusted or painful skin nodule. Contact the clinic promptly if the site becomes increasingly red, swollen, warm or draining after a procedure, or if you develop fever.

Ask whether the lesion needs a biopsy or complete removal, how the proposed treatment will affect nearby structures and what pathology follow-up is planned. Ask about wound care, sun protection and signs of infection after treatment.