skin disorders
Keratoacanthomas
Introduction
Keratoacanthomas are round, firm, usually flesh-colored growths that have a central crater that is scaly or crusted. Some keratoacanthomas may be a form of Squamous Cell Carcinoma . Keratoacanthomas appear most commonly on sun-exposed areas, such as the face, forearms, and back of the hands, and grow quickly. In 1 or 2 months, they typically grow into lumps about 1 inch (about 2.5 centimeters) wide, but sometimes they grow over twice as large. They may spontaneously disappear within a few months, often leaving a scar. The cause of keratoacanthomas is unknown. Most doctors consider keratoacanthomas to be a form of squamous cell carcinoma, a type of Overview of Skin Cancer . 