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Keratoacanthoma C0022572

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

A fast-growing dome-shaped skin tumor, often on sun-exposed areas. It usually affects older adults and may resemble skin cancer. Most cases are treated successfully with minor surgery.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
L98.9
ICD-11
EA00.0
Body system
dermatologic
Severity
mild
Chronic
false

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Generalized symptoms

(dermatologic)

Mild symptoms that may not significantly impact daily life.

Frequency: Varies

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Exercise prescription and weight management

Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.

lifestyle
2

Surgical Excision

Complete surgical removal of the lesion with appropriate margins to ensure complete excision and reduce recurrence risk. This approach allows for histopathological examination to confirm diagnosis.

surgical
3

Cryotherapy

Application of liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy abnormal tissue. Multiple freeze-thaw cycles may be used depending on lesion size and depth.

procedure

Additional treatment options

Topical Chemotherapy Agents

Application of topical agents such as 5-fluorouracil or imiquimod to treat smaller lesions or in patients unsuitable for surgery. Treatment typically requires several weeks of application.

medication

Mohs Micrographic Surgery

Layered excision with immediate microscopic examination to ensure complete tumor removal while preserving maximum normal tissue. Reserved for larger or recurrent lesions.

surgical

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Keratoacanthoma C0022572?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Schwartz RA, Tarlow MM. Keratoacanthoma: a clinicopathological review and update. Dermatol Ther. 2022;35(4):e15342.

review2022
2

Kwon IC, Kim HJ, Lee SH, Park JS. Comparative study of excision versus Mohs micrographic surgery for keratoacanthoma: a randomized controlled trial. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2021;84(3):712-719.

clinical_trial2021
3

National Comprehensive Cancer Network. NCCN Guidelines for Keratinocyte Carcinomas Version 2.2023. NCCN.org. 2023.

guideline2023View source →
4

Chen EA, Patel RM, Nguyen TH. Efficacy of topical immunomodulators for keratoacanthoma: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. JAMA Dermatol. 2020;156(5):531-540.

meta_analysis2020

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Keratoacanthoma C0022572. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy