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Histopathologists’ approach to keratoacanthoma: a multisite survey of regional variation in Great Britain and Ireland
  1. Richard A Carr1,
  2. Joseph P Houghton2
  1. 1Department of Histopathology, Warwick Hospital, Warwick, UK
  2. 2Centre for Medical Education, Queens University Belfast, Belfast, UK
  1. Correspondence to Dr Richard A Carr, Deparment of Histopathology, Warwick Hospital, Warwick, CV34 5BW, UK; Richard.Carr{at}swft.nhs.uk

Abstract

Introduction This survey examines regional variation in the diagnosis of keratoacanthoma (KA).

Methods Twenty-three departments from Great Britain and Ireland were invited. The number of cases coded as KA or cutaneous SCC in the previous 12 months was retrieved. An SCC: KA ratio was calculated. Participants also provided free text responses.

Results Seventeen departments replied. A total of 11 718 cases were included with a breakdown of 998 KA and 10 720 SCC. The mean SCC:KA ratio was 10.7:1, range (2.5:1 to 139:1). Free text responses are presented.

Discussions An extreme variation in approach is highlighted by this survey. We believe a multidisciplinary team approach to the diagnosis of KA is essential. There seems to be a need for a carefully considered clinicopathological study, backed up by molecular studies, to better understand the natural biology of this diagnosis.

  • Dermatopathology
  • DiagnosiS
  • Skin Tumours

https://doi.org/10.1136/jclinpath-2014-202255

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