At G Square Clinic, located in Hubli, we treat a variety of skin tumors, but once in a while, a case comes along that presents an unusual challenge.
Recently, we encountered a 74-year-old male with a slow-growing, painless lesion on the top of his foot — a rare presentation of keratoacanthoma, a skin tumor that closely resembles squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

Case Overview

The patient, a retired farmer from North Karnataka, came to our dermatology clinic in Hubli after noticing a firm, dome-shaped nodule on the dorsum (top) of his right foot.

Symptoms & Observations:

No pain, itching, or discharge

Present for several months

Approximately 2.5 cm in diameter

A central keratin plug was visible

The patient assumed it was a wart and delayed treatment, which is a common risk among elderly individuals who overlook non-painful skin growths.

 

Clinical Diagnosis & Treatment

During examination, the lesion’s shape and keratin center suggested keratoacanthoma, though squamous cell carcinoma was also suspected due to the patient's age and history of sun exposure.

Treatment Steps at G Square Clinic:

✅ The lesion was surgically excised under local anesthesia
✅ Tissue was sent for histopathological examination (HPE)
✅ Diagnosis was confirmed: Keratoacanthoma

 

What is Keratoacanthoma?

Keratoacanthoma (KA) is a low-grade skin tumor that arises from hair follicles. Although it is considered benign, it grows rapidly and may mimic skin cancer (SCC) both clinically and under the microscope.

Key Characteristics:

Common in elderly patients

Frequently found on sun-exposed skin (face, arms)

Rarely seen on the foot

May regress spontaneously, but biopsy is essential to rule out malignancy

 

 

Why This Case Is Important

✅ Rare Location: The foot is an uncommon site for keratoacanthoma
✅ Delayed Diagnosis: The lesion was dismissed by the patient as harmless
✅ Cancer Mimic: KA resembles SCC, so early skin tumor diagnosis is critical

This case emphasizes the need for public awareness and early evaluation of any unusual skin growth, especially in elderly patients.

 

Expert Advice from a Trusted Dermatologist in Hubli

“Not all skin lesions are as harmless as they appear. Even a painless growth can indicate an underlying skin tumor. If you notice any unusual or persistent skin change, don’t wait — seek medical advice from a certified dermatologist.”
— Dr. Girishkumar M. Chalawadi

 

Why Choose G Square Clinic – Hubli’s Dermatology Destination

Located in the center of Hubli, G Square Skin, Hair & Plastic Surgery Clinic is a trusted name for:

✅ Accurate skin tumor diagnosis and removal

✅ Expert treatment by a qualified dermatologist in North Karnataka

✅ Advanced procedures for pigmentation, acne scars, wart removal, and more

✅ Friendly, patient-focused care and follow-up

We are proud to serve Hubli, Dharwad, Belgaum, and nearby cities in North Karnataka.

 

📞 Book an Appointment

If you or a loved one notice any unusual growth on the skin — especially if it changes in shape, size, or color — don’t delay.

📍 Visit us at: G Square Skin, Hair & Plastic Surgery Clinic, Shriya Lakshmi Business Centre, Behind Hosur Bus Stand, Hubli
📞 Call/WhatsApp: +91 91106 10004
🌐 Website: gsquareskinandaesthetics.in