Cutaneous Horn
Conical projection of compacted keratin arising from the skin surface, requiring histologic evaluation to determine underlying pathology.
Full Definition
A cutaneous horn is a clinical term describing a conical, horn-like projection of compacted keratin material extending from the skin surface. While the horn itself consists of keratin, the underlying lesion may be benign, premalignant, or malignant, including seborrheic keratosis, actinic keratosis, or squamous cell carcinoma. The diagnosis describes the morphology rather than the histologic nature of the lesion. Surgical removal with histopathologic examination of the base is essential for proper diagnosis and management.
Usage
Usage note: The term describes clinical appearance; the underlying pathology must be determined histologically.
In Context
- "The 2-cm cutaneous horn on the patient's forehead was excised with its base for histologic evaluation." — Operative report
- "Pathology revealed the cutaneous horn arose from an underlying actinic keratosis with focal atypia." — Pathology report