National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center, a program of the National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences

Acanthoma


An acanthoma is a small, reddish bump that usually develops on the skin of an older adult.  There are several types of acanthoma, including "acantholytic", "epidermolytic", "clear cell", and "melanoacanthoma".[1]  Though most individuals have only one acanthoma, there have been rare reports of individuals who have developed many.  The exact cause of acanthoma is not known; it is sometimes called a benign tumor, and sometimes described as the result of inflammation.  Acanthomas are not considered dangerous and do not require treatment, but they may be removed for cosmetic reasons or to relieve any associated symptoms.[2][3]
Last updated: 3/26/2012
Acanthomas are considered benign, but treatment may be done for cosmetic reasons or to relieve any associated symptoms.[2][3]  Because acanthomas are quite rare, there are no established guidelines for treatment.  Treatment may depend on the type, number, and location of acanthomas.  For example, a single acanthoma may be removed by surgery, whereas multiple acanthomas may be treated with cryosurgery or the use of the medication fluorouracil cream.[2]
Last updated: 3/26/2012

These resources provide more information about this condition or associated symptoms. The in-depth resources contain medical and scientific language that may be hard to understand. You may want to review these resources with a medical professional.

In-Depth Information

  • The Monarch Initiative brings together data about this condition from humans and other species to help physicians and biomedical researchers. Monarch’s tools are designed to make it easier to compare the signs and symptoms (phenotypes) of different diseases and discover common features. This initiative is a collaboration between several academic institutions across the world and is funded by the National Institutes of Health. Visit the website to explore the biology of this condition.
  • PubMed is a searchable database of medical literature and lists journal articles that discuss Acanthoma. Click on the link to view a sample search on this topic.

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  • I recently had a biopsy which showed an acanthoma.  I am seeking information about this condition. See answer


  1. Omulecki A, Lesiak A, Narbutt J, Wozniacka A, Piekarski J, Biernat W. Plaque form of warty dyskeratoma - acantholytic dyskeratotic acanthoma. Journal of Cutaneous Pathology. 2007; 34:494-496. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17518779. Accessed 3/26/2012.
  2. Monari P, Farisoglio C, Gualdi G, Botali G, Ungari M, Calzavara-Pinton P. Multiple eruptive clear cell acanthoma. Journal of dermatological case reports. 2010; 4:25-27. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21886743. Accessed 3/26/2012.
  3. Andrews BT, Trask DK. Oral melanoacanthoma: a case report, a review of the literature, and a new treatment option. The Annals of otology, rhinology, and laryngology. 2005; 114:677-680. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16240929#. Accessed 3/26/2012.