Cutaneous Horn: A Devil Not Only in Appearance

Abstract

Background: The pathology of most cutaneous horns are benign although malignancy potential has been reported in around 20 to 30 percent and not only the appearance of these lesions are a source of distress but also the fact that they can be associated with malignant transformations. The purpose of this article is to keep the clinician in constant vigil of this uncommon benign but potentially malignant lesions. Objective: To evaluate the association of Cutaneous horn with malignant change Methods: The six patients with cutaeous horn presented in our outpatient department of Plastic and Reconstructive surgery from 1st January 2014 to 30th November 2015 were evaluated and managed with wide local excision and reconstruction considering the principals of the reconstructive ladder. Histopathological reports of the specimen were collected and data was tabulated. The followup clinical examination was done every week. Results: In our study most of the lesions occured on the scalp and the remaining were found on the perineum and malignancy was confirmed on histopathology in half of these scalp lesions, whereas none of the perineal lesions in our sudy showed any malignant change. Conclusions: Cutaneous horn although an uncommon condition and usually neglected by the patient should be kept under high suspicion by the treating Surgeon and definitive management with wide local excision with adequate margins should always be explained to the patient.