Keratoacanthoma: clinical and therapeutic considerations

Keratoacanthoma is a rapidly growing tumor of the skin which causes concern to both the affected individual and the examining physician. In spite of its clinical and histological similarity to squamous cell carcinoma, the lesion has, as a rule, a benign course with spontaneous involution in a period of weeks to several months. Recognition of the lesion and familiarity with its biological behavior are indispensable for adequate management. The different types of tumor, complications, and therapy are discussed.