Keratoacanthoma of the lower lip: still a matter of diagnosis

Abstract

Introduction: Keratoacanthoma is a lesion that may mimic squamous cells carcinoma clinically and histologically and the distinction between both lesions has been a matter of discussion. Typical lesions consist of a firm dome-shaped nodule, 1 to 2 centimeters in diameter, with a horn-filled crater in its center. Objectives: To present it was selected an atypical case of a 43-year-old woman who had a solitary keratoacanthoma (KA) of the lower lip with a history of two years of evolution and mistreatment and to discuss the difficulties of the diagnosis process. Conclusion: Because of the rarity of the lesion and its similarity with squamous cells carcinoma the general dentist must explain to the patient that the clinical aspects are not conclusive of the diagnosis and a correct acquisition of the surgical specimen is crucial to an accurate histopathological interpretation and conclusive diagnosis.