Can dermatofibroma become cancerous?

A dermatofibroma is a common overgrowth of the fibrous tissue situated in the dermis (the deeper of the two main layers of the skin). It is benign (harmless) and will not turn into a cancer.

Can you die from dermatofibroma?

During the past years a few examples of cellular, aneurysmal, aty- pical dermatofibromas as well as of dermatofi- bromas occurring on the face and in deep soft tissues have been reported that metastasized to lymph nodes and the lungs and even caused death of patients in some instances.

What is cellular dermatofibroma?

Cellular dermatofibroma, also known as cellular fibrous histiocytoma, is a subtype of the cutaneous soft-tissue lesion, dermatofibroma. Dermatofibroma is a common lesion, and it accounts for approximately 3% of the skin lesion specimens received by dermatopathology laboratories.

Do Dermatofibromas change over time?

Dermatofibromas are small, noncancerous (benign) skin growths that can develop anywhere on the body but most often appear on the lower legs, upper arms or upper back. These nodules are common in adults but are rare in children. They can be pink, gray, red or brown in color and may change color over the years.

Does a dermatofibroma hurt?

Dermatofibromas are usually painless, but some people experience tenderness or itching. Most often, a single nodule develops, but some people can develop many dermatofibromas. They rarely grow larger than a half-inch in diameter. The cause of dermatofibromas is unknown.

How is the diagnosis of dermatofibroma made?

A dermatofibroma is diagnosed chiefly on the basis of its clinical features, namely, its firm feel and a positive pinch test. Dermoscopic examination will often show the characteristic pattern of peripheral reticular pigmentation with a central white spot.

Can a skin cancer that looks like dermatofibroma spread?

Very rarely, a certain skin cancer that initially resembles a dermatofibroma can spread. This skin cancer has a long name called a dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP).

When is the best time to remove a dermatofibroma?

Some people may prefer to have their dermatofibromas removed if the growth is unsightly, is in an inconvenient location (such as in a place that repeatedly becomes nicked while shaving or is irritated by clothing), or is painful or itchy. Because a dermatofibroma grows deep, removal requires excising it below the surface level of the skin.

Can a nodule from dermatofibroma grow back?

Alternatively, the nodule may be flattened to the surface of the skin by shaving the top off with a surgical knife, but this removes only the top layers of the dermatofibroma, leaving the deeper layers so that the nodule may grow back again after several years. Very rarely, a certain skin cancer that initially resembles a dermatofibroma can spread.