Dermatofibroma

Synonyms

Fibrous histiocytoma; histiocytoma, histiocytofibroma. Benign fibrous histiocytoma.

Epidemiology

Dermatofibroma is one of the most common skin tumor like lesions.

Definition

The dermatofibroma is a frequent, benign fibrohistiocytic dermal tumor.

Aetiology & Pathogenesis

The aetiology of dermatofibromas is not known, they sometimes occur after cutaneous trauma including persisting stings.

Signs & Symptoms

Solitary or multiple brownish, lentil-shaped, firm sometimes itchy papules or small nodules.

Localisation

Dermatofibromas can occur on the whole body except palms and soles.

Classification

The histopathological types include cell rich fibrous histiocytoma (80%) and the hemosiderotic, epithelioid, cellular, lipidized, atrophic and clear cell variants.

Laboratory & other workups

None.

Dermatopathology

Fibrous histiocytomas are benign dermal fibrohistiocytic tumors, made up of a mixture of fibroblastic and histiocytic cells, collagen and blood vessels. Variable hemosiderin, chronic inflammatory cells may be found at the margin of the lesion.

Course

Dermatofibromas have a chronic course, and may remain unchanged or flatten with time.

Complications

Usually none.

Diagnosis

Clinical features (histology is rarely needed).

Differential diagnosis

Basal cell carcinoma, melanocytic naevus, old regressing congenital nevi, melanoma, scars, haemangioma. Large dermatofibromas must be differentiated from dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, a rare infiltrating soft tissue sarcoma.

Prevention & Therapy

Abstention, surgical excision, cryosurgery or laser ablation.

Special

None.

3.2.3 Dermatofibroma