Dermatofibroma Removal in New York

A dermatofibroma is a benign skin growth, also known as a cutaneous fibrous histiocytoma. These growths typically appear as small, firm, raised bumps, usually painless and flesh-colored, but may also be brown, pink, red, or gray. They can occur anywhere on the body, but are most commonly found on the legs, arms, and back. Dermatofibromas may change color over time and may feel like a stone when pinched from the sides. While most dermatofibromas are harmless, some variants such as cellular dermatofibromas may attach to the deepest layer of skin, and are still non-cancerous, but may require medical attention.

Dermatofibromas are usually painless, but some people may experience tenderness or itching. The exact cause of dermatofibromas is not known, but they may result from minor injuries, such as insect bites or scratches, and may occur more frequently in women. Treatment is usually not necessary unless the growth is causing discomfort or the individual wishes to have it removed for cosmetic reasons.

Dermatofibroma is a non-cancerous skin growth that is typically small, raised, and firm to the touch. It can appear anywhere on the body, but it most commonly develops on the legs, arms, and back. The growths can vary in color, ranging from flesh-colored to tan, brown, black, purple, blue, yellow, red, orange, or pink. The color of the growth is often influenced by the underlying pigment of the person’s skin. In light-skinned individuals, dermatofibromas are typically pink to light brown, while in dark-skinned individuals, they are typically dark brown or black.

The size of dermatofibromas varies from 0.5 to 1.5 cm in diameter, with most lesions being 7 to 10 mm in diameter. Dermatofibromas can be hard, itchy, tender, or painful, depending on the type and location of the growth. While they do not develop into cancer, the nodules may change color over the years.

Dermatofibroma should not be confused with dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP), which is a rare type of skin cancer. DFSP usually appears as a reddish-brown or pink patch of raised skin that looks like a scar and grows into a hard or rubbery lump. Dr. Rokhsar is happy to evaluate any lesions you may be concerned about to rule-out the possibility of cancer.

Although the exact cause of dermatofibromas is not known, medical researchers suggest that they are a result of the accumulation of extra cells within the deeper layers of the skin. However, it is not clear whether dermatofibromas are a reactive process or a true neoplasm. One theory is that a dermatofibroma is a “reactive growth”. Some people report the occurrence of dermatofibromas after minor traumas like insect bites, injections, or rose thorn injuries. However, this correlation is not consistent. The reason why some people develop dermatofibromas is unclear, but some medications and genetic factors may contribute to their formation.

Dermatofibromas usually appear as a single nodule that rarely grows larger than a half-inch in diameter, but some people can develop many dermatofibromas. Cellular dermatofibromas are a type of dermatofibroma that often grow down to the subcutaneous tissue, and they are more likely to come back (recur) after treatment.

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a different skin condition that is often confused with dermatofibroma. DFSP is a rare type of skin cancer that starts in connective tissue cells in the middle layer of the skin (dermis) and looks like a pimple or feels like a rough patch of skin at first. As it grows, lumps of tissue (protuberans) may form near the surface of the skin.

Dermatofibromas are benign skin growths that typically do not require treatment. However, some individuals may choose to have them removed for cosmetic reasons or if they are causing discomfort. There are several treatment options available for removing dermatofibromas.

One option is surgical excision, which involves removing the growth through a minor surgical procedure under local anesthesia. Another option is shave removal, which involves scraping the lesion off the skin’s surface, also done under local anesthesia. Cryotherapy, punch removal, and laser treatments are also treatment methods available for removing dermatofibromas, but they are less commonly used and may not be completely successful. Steroid injections can also be administered to reduce pain or lesion size, but they are not typically used as a primary treatment method for removal.

Dermatofibromas do not go away on their own and will remain for life unless removed. Recurrence after removal is also common, as the lesion can often extend beyond the clinical margin. Therefore, surgical removal is the most effective method for removing dermatofibromas permanently. If you are considering removal, it is recommended to consult with a dermatologist to determine the best course of action based on your individual needs and medical history. Dr Rokhsar, double board certified in dermatology and dermatologic surgery, an expert in surgical or laser treatments of dermatofibromas.