Which type of skin lesion is described as a smooth red dome-shaped papule with a central crust?

A keratoacanthoma is a type of skin lesion that typically presents as a smooth, dome-shaped papule that is often red or flesh-colored and can have a central crust or keratin plug. These lesions are generally well-defined and can grow rapidly, resembling squamous cell carcinoma, but they often resolve spontaneously over time. The appearance of the off-center crust is a distinctive feature that helps differentiate keratoacanthomas from other skin conditions.

In contrast, epidermal cysts are usually firm and may not have the same dome shape or central crust. Keloids are raised scars caused by excessive collagen formation during healing, and they do not typically present as papules. Actinic keratosis, on the other hand, is characterized by dry, scaly patches on sun-damaged skin rather than smooth papules; they may also have a crusty appearance but differ in texture and presentation compared to a keratoacanthoma.

Understanding these characteristics is crucial for proper identification and differentiation of skin lesions in clinical practice.