• The above specimen is taken from a middle-aged man. What are the features?


Answer
A raised lesion with acanthosis and  central core
of keratin. The base of the lesion is well-demarcated
without evidence of deep invasion.


 
• Is excision necessary for this condition?
a
Answer
While this lesion may resolve spontaneously, it can 
leave an unsightly scar. Excision is the treatment of 
choice. In addition, keratoacanthoma may sometimes
be indistinguishable from squamous cell carcinoma and 
total excision (including the base) allow a more thorough histological examination.