Keratoacanthoma in HIV seropositive patient
Abstract
Introduction: the keratoacanthoma is a benign tumor, crateriform, of a very rapid growth, with appearance of neoplasms. It’s characterized by its nodular form and the presence of a central corneal cap, as well as pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia which some authors have attributed to a viral origin. Usually occurs in areas exposed to sunlight in elderly adult or advanced age people, with a rapid growth from a rounded papule that overlay in the center. Regarding spontaneous regression, currently there is evidence that is immunologically mediated by activated lymphocytes T CD4–IL 2R; adhesion molecules play an important role in the immune response.
Case report: a 29 years old male patient, homosexual, HIV positive; was referred to the Dermatology specialist in his health area with a localized skin condition compatible with a giant keratoacanthoma that after starting antiretroviral therapy and a treatment with transfer factor (Hebertrans®), he regressed in three months.
Discussion: keratoacanthomas may be solitary or multiple. It has not been documented predilection for some sex, although some studies indicate that it is more common in males, with a ratio of 2:1. There are many therapeutic options but, despite scientific advances, surgery remains the treatment of choice, as in the cases of basal and squamous cell carcinomas.