Pilomatricoma
A Common Skin Tumor Originating from Hair Follicles
Today’s topic might be unfamiliar to you – we’ll be discussing ‘Pilomatricoma.’
If you’ve noticed a firm lump persisting on areas like your eyebrows or arms, it might be worth considering this condition. Pilomatricoma, which accounts for approximately 80% of benign tumors originating from hair follicles, usually presents as a slightly raised, hard nodule in the deeper layers of the skin, as shown in the picture below.
More common in women than men, it frequently occurs in infants, teenagers, and individuals over 50 years of age. Although it can develop anywhere on the body, it is most commonly found on the head, neck, and upper extremities. Most pilomatricomas are solitary and often symptomless, but they can sometimes cause pain. They usually appear in skin color, red, or even blue.
Upon histological examination, the tumor is typically located deep within the dermis and subcutaneous fat layer. Characteristic basaloid cells, transitional cells, and shadow cells can be observed within the tumor.
Pilomatricoma, as seen in the ultrasound image above, usually has clear boundaries and a hypoechoic rim. Numerous small hyperechoic regions due to calcification can be observed within the tumor.
The treatment for pilomatricoma involves complete excision, and recurrences are not common after complete removal.
Pilomatricoma can often be confused with epidermal cysts or sebaceous cysts. While epidermal or sebaceous cysts result from the proliferation of keratinocytes in the skin’s cyst, leading to inflammation as sebum accumulates, pilomatricoma originates from hair follicles.
While it’s not a significant problem, if you desire removal for cosmetic reasons, complete excision under local anesthesia is possible.
If you notice persisting lumps on your skin and find it unusual, please make sure to visit a nearby dermatology clinic for a consultation!