Dermatofibroma - Removal, Treatment of Dermatofibroma

Alternate Names :DF, dermal dendrocytoma, dermatofibroma lenticulare, fibroma durum, fibroma simplex, histiocytoma, histiocytoma cutis, nodular subepidermal fibrosis, sclerosing angioma, sclerosing hemangioma.

Dermatofibroma is a very common skin condition. It is also called Fibrous Histiocytoma. Dermatofibroma is red-to-brown colored, small papule or nodule which is composed of fibroblastic tissue and is usually found on the legs. Dermatofibroma consists of a proliferation of scar-like tissue within the deeper layers of the skin.

We will deal with Treatment and Removal of Dermatofibroma in this section.

What causes Dermatofibroma ?

The exact cause of Dermatofibroma is unknown. Some may be caused by insect bites. Dermatofibroma are harmless and never turn cancerous.

Appearance of Dermatofibroma

Dermatofibroma feel like hard lumps under the skin. They're like an iceberg in that there is more under the skin than seen on the surface. They can crop up anywhere, but are most common on the lower legs of young or middle-aged adults and on the upper arms of women. Dermatofibroma condition mostly occurs on the legs and arms.

Are dermatofibromas hereditary?
No.

What are the symptoms of Dermatofibroma ?

Usually the only problem is with how Dermatofibroma look. Occasionally they itch or hurt when touched or knocked. If they are on the legs, shaving the skin over them can cause bleeding.

Sign, tests and diagnosis of Dermatofibroma

A doctor can usually identify a dermatofibroma easily by the way it looks. However, if there is doubt about the diagnosis, or worries over the possibility of skin cancer, the bump can be removed under a local anesthetic and looked at under the microscope.

Dermatofibroma Treatment and Removal:

Dermatofibroma do not go away by themselves. However, as they are harmless and cause little trouble, for this reason Dermatofibromas are best ignored. No treatment is usually needed apart from an accurate diagnosis and reassurance. When a dermatofibroma gets in the way of shaving or is irritated by clothing, it can be flattened by freezing with liquid nitrogen. Dermatofibroma are best ignored. If the diagnosis is uncertain, a piece may be removed for tissue analysis.

Their Removal: Dermatofibromas can be removed surgically , but since they are deep, this usually leaves a scar. Removal under a local anesthetic will always leave a scar, which may be as ugly as the original bump. There are two main ways to remove a dermatofibroma - Surgically and Freezing.