Surgical excision of a giant solitary keratoacanthoma in the cheek: a case report and literature review

Abstract

Background Giant keratoacanthoma, a rare variant solitary of keratoacanthoma is characterized by a diameter exceeding 20 mm, rapid growth, and destruction of underlying tissue. Traditionally, it has been considered to be a self-resolving or low-grade squamous proliferation. Due to their atypical appearance, Giant keratoacanthomas may present a diagnostic challenge. Histopathological examination remains the reference standard for distinguishing squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) from keratoacanthoma. Surgical management is still the standard treatment for solitary keratoacanthoma. Case Description We present the case of a 75-year-old man with a giant keratoacanthoma of the cheek, with a transverse length of 25 mm and a longitudinal length of 30 mm located 30 mm below the earlobe that was surgically excised with no obvious recurrence during follow-up. We used the Intraoperative frozen-section examination, which played a crucial role in ensuring clear margins and complete tumor removal. Conclusions This case demonstrates that keratoacanthoma can be considered surgically curable and should be distinguished from SCC and other crateriform tumors. After surgical resection of giant isolated keratoacanthoma on the face, the high risk of cosmetic problems should be considered. We suggest free-flap transplantation be performed for functional repair, when the invasion range of the tumor is large and a perforation defect is formed.