What are the treatment options for keratoacanthoma?

A keratoacanthoma can appear as a firm, rapidly enlarging lump with a central keratin-filled area, often on sun-exposed skin. Its appearance can overlap with other skin growths, so a clinician may recommend removal and tissue examination rather than watching it at home. Surgical excision cuts out the lump with a margin of surrounding skin and closes the wound. Curettage and cautery removes the visible growth by scraping, followed by heat treatment to control the area. The appropriate method depends on the location, depth, size, and whether preserving nearby structures is a priority.

Book a dermatology appointment promptly for a new or changing lump. Note when it began, how quickly it has changed, and whether it bleeds, crusts, or feels sore. Avoid squeezing, picking, or attempting to remove it yourself. Before a procedure, tell the clinician about medicines that affect bleeding, allergies, previous problems with local anaesthetic, and any difficulty healing. Follow wound-care instructions carefully after treatment and keep the area protected from friction.

Seek prompt medical care for a lump that grows quickly, bleeds repeatedly, forms a persistent crust, becomes painful, or develops an open sore. Contact the treatment team if the wound shows spreading redness, increasing warmth, pus-like drainage, fever, or pain that is worsening instead of settling. Urgent review is also appropriate if bleeding does not stop with firm direct pressure.

Ask whether the growth should be removed and examined, why excision or curettage and cautery fits its location, how the wound will be closed, and when you should expect the tissue result and follow-up review.