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Cutaneous Horn

Conical keratin deposit projecting from the skin surface.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dermatoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Cutaneous Horn?

A cutaneous horn (cornu cutaneum) is a lesion composed of conical or cylindrical keratin deposits projecting outward from the skin surface. The lesion itself is not a diagnosis but a morphological description; what matters is the pathology at its base.

The base may contain benign (seborrheic keratosis, actinic keratosis, viral wart), premalignant, or malignant lesions (squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma). Approximately 15-20% of cases have a malignant or premalignant base.

It most commonly occurs on sun-exposed face, ears, and dorsum of the hands. Older age, fair skin, and chronic sun exposure are risk factors. Biopsy or excision including the base must be performed for diagnosis and treatment.

Symptoms

Hard, conical horn-like protrusion projecting from the skin
Usually painless, but base may be tender
Common occurrence on face, ears, and dorsum of hands
Redness or induration at the base of the horn
Lesion tends to grow slowly
Rarely bleeding

Risk Factors

Chronic sun exposure
Older age
Fair skin (Fitzpatrick type I-II)
Immunosuppression
HPV infection
History of radiotherapy

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When any horn-like protrusion is noticed on the skin
  • If the lesion grows rapidly
  • If there is firmness, redness, or bleeding at the base
  • If a previously existing lesion changes in shape

Treatment Methods

01
Excisional biopsy (including the base, for histopathology)
02
Follow-up only if base is benign
03
Wide excision in premalignant or malignant base
04
Cryotherapy (in benign cases)
05
Use of sunscreen and regular dermatologic follow-up

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dermatoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Dermatoloji Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.