DERMATOFIBROMA

Dermatofibromas are common benign or harmless skin growths. They usually appear as round small hard knots in the skin, pink or light brown in color. They occur commonly on the legs in women, suggesting a reaction to shaving as a possible cause. However, they also sometimes occur in men and in children, appearing on other locations such as the trunk, arms, or face. Other forms of local trauma may be causative in these cases.

Dermatofibromas do not have any cancerous potential and no removal is necessary if they are not bothersome. However, if they are tender, enlarging or easily traumatized then excision is usually indicated. Since these growths typically extend deeply into the skin, a deep excisional technique is usually necessary to remove the entire growth. Usually this involves closing the wound with stitches. This will leave a small scar a the site of excision but is worth doing if the growth is becoming a nuisance.

Some people have a tendency to form multiple dermatofibromas. Further lesions may appear in new locations as time goes on. Only lesions which are symptomatic require excision. The most important factor with dermatofibromas is recognition, so that no undue concern is raised with regard to mistaking these harmless growths for a skin cancer.