Cutaneous Horn or Cornu Cutaneum are skin tumors with the appearance of animal horns

Cutaneous horns, also known by the Latin name cornu cutaneum, are unusual keratinous skin tumors with the appearance of animal horns, or sometimes of wood or coral.

They are usually small and localized, but can in very rare cases be much larger.

Although often benign, they can also be malignant or premalignant.

The cause of cutaneous horns is still unknown, however it is believed that exposure to radiation can trigger the condition. This is evidenced by a higher rate of cases occurring on the face and hands, areas that are often exposed to sunlight. Other cases have reported cutaneous horns arising from burn scars.

Removal:
As the horn is composed of dead keratin, the same material found in fingernails, the horn can usually be removed with a sterile razor. However, the underlying condition will still need to be treated. Treatments vary, but they can include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.