Dermatofibroma
A dermatofibroma is a harmless growth of the second, or lower layer of the skin. It is made up of scar tissue and blood vessels. It may appear as a skin-colored firm bump that dimples when you pinch it. It usually occurs after insect bites or trauma to the skin.
These tumors are common but harmless, and it is common to have more than one lesion. They do not go away on their own. They rarely get larger than the size of a nickel. If they get bigger very quickly or become painful, you should have them checked.
Treatment
1. The raised part of-the lesion can be shaved off, leaving it flat with the skin that surrounds it. The deep portion of the tumor will remain and so it may recur.
2. Your dermatologist may remove the lesion by cutting around and below it to remove all of the tissue. He or she will then sew (suture) it closed. This will leave a scar and there is a slight risk of infection.
3. Your dermatologist may also freeze the tumor with liquid nitrogen. This may cause the area to blister and crust but it should heal with little or no scarring. Sometimes there may be a permanent light or dark spot left at the site. This treatment may not cause the tumor to go away completely.
UW Dermatology Department 1 S. Park St 7th Floor Madison, WI 53715 Clinic: 608 287-2450 |
American Family Children’s Hospital Pediatric Dermatology Specialty Clinic 1675 Highland Ave. Madison, WI 53792 Clinic: 608 263-6420 |
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 11/14/2012
Copyright © 11/14/2012 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#6457
Print Health Fact For You