The Effectiveness of cryosurgery combined with curettage and electrodessication in the treatment of keratoacanthoma: A retrospective analysis of 90 cases

Abstract

Background: There are several treatment options for keratoacanthoma (KA). However, there are limited data available on the use of cryosurgery. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of a combination treatment for KA and to evaluate the cosmetic outcome. Materials and Methods: The combination treatment incorporates the use of curettage, electrodessication, and cryotherapy. A retrospective study was conducted on 90 patients with KA who had been treated with this method between 2000 and 2014. The follow-up period lasted 2 years and photographs were available for every visit of the patients to the department. Results: The success rate was found to be 97.8%. No serious adverse events were observed. No infections were reported. The cosmetic outcome was evaluated as excellent for all patients. Discussion: The combination method appears to combine the advantages of both destructive treatment and surgical excision. It appears to be a safe and effective treatment method. However, there are certain limitations to this study. Conclusions: More studies are needed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of this method.

Keywords

• cryotherapy
• curettage
• electrodessication
• keratoacanthoma