A New Hybrid Therapeutic Approach to Solitary Keratoacanthoma: Complete Recovery in Six Patients

Abstract

<b><i>Introduction:</i></b> Solitary keratoacanthoma (SKA) is generally considered as a well-differentiated form of squamous cell carcinoma, but it usually runs a benign course and a not aggressive behavior. Diagnostic criteria, prognosis, and treatment of SKA are not fully defined yet. Surgical treatment with fusiform excision represents the gold standard; nonoperative intralesional therapy of KA is uncommon but may provide a valid option in some categories of patients. <b><i>Case Series Presentation:</i></b> We report our experience regarding the treatment of SKA with a hybrid treatment consisting of a minimally invasive technique such as curettage followed by intralesional corticosteroid administration in the same session. Six patients affected with KA were treated ending in a complete resolution, with good esthetic outcome, no relapse after 1 year, and satisfaction of the patients. <b><i>Discussion and Conclusion:</i></b> The combined treatment allows us on the one hand to avoid radical surgery in selected patients and particular anatomic areas and on the other the side effects that the use of intralesional chemotherapy/immunosuppressive drugs can entail.