pilomatrixoma

What is Pilomatrixoma?

Pilomatrixoma, also known as pilomatricoma or calcifying epithelioma of Malherbe, is a type of noncancerous (benign) skin tumor associated with hair follicles [2]. It is a superficial benign skin tumor that arises from hair follicle matrix cells [3].

Characteristics

Pilomatrixomas are typically solitary, asymptomatic, and firm lesions that can be found on the face, neck, upper extremities, or other parts of the body [1], [5], [8]. They often display calcification within the lesion, which makes them feel hard and bony, and may result in an angulated shape (the 'tent' sign) [4].

Symptoms

A pilomatricoma usually feels like a small, hard lump under the skin. It grows relatively slowly and does not typically cause pain or other symptoms [8], [9]. Most pilomatrixomas are slow-growing and do not require immediate attention.

Key Facts

• Pilomatrixomas are benign tumors derived from the hair follicular matrix that often display mutations in the β-catenin gene and/or β-catenin expression [5].
• They commonly occur on the face, neck, and upper extremities.
• Pilomatrixomas can be firm, solitary lesions.

References

[1] Oct 17, 2024 — A pilomatrixoma is a benign appendageal tumor with differentiation toward hair cells. It usually manifests as a solitary, asymptomatic, ...

[2] Jun 1, 2012 — Pilomatricoma, also known as pilomatrixoma, is a type of noncancerous (benign) skin tumor associated with hair follicles.

[3] Pilomatrixoma, also known as calcifying epithelioma of Malherbe, is a superficial benign skin tumor that arises from hair follicle matrix cells.

[4] Pilomatricoma is characterised by calcification within the lesion, which makes it feel hard and bony, and often results in an angulated shape (the 'tent' sign).

[5] Pilomatricomas are benign tumors derived from the hair follicular matrix that often display mutations in the β-catenin gene and/or β-catenin expression ...

[6] by DC DeRosa · 2012 · Cited by 28 — Pilomatricomas manifest as a benign, cutaneous, firm, solitary lesions of the face, neck, and upper extremities.

[7] Pilomatrixoma is an unusual, slow-growing, benign tumour arising from a hair follicle. They commonly occur in the pre-auricular region.

[8] A pilomatricoma feels like a small, hard lump under the skin. This type of tumor grows relatively slowly and usually does not cause pain or other symptoms. Most ...

[9] A pilomatrixoma is a slow-growing, hard lump found under the skin. It is most common on the face and neck, but it may be on other parts of the body.

Diagnostic Tests for Pilomatrixoma

Pilomatrixoma, also known as calcifying epithelioma of Malherbe, can be diagnosed through a combination of physical examination and various diagnostic tests.

• Physical Examination: A pilomatrixoma is often diagnosed based on how it looks and feels. The lump may appear as a small, firm, and sometimes painful nodule under the skin.
• Biopsy: A tissue sample is taken from the lump and examined under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis. This is considered the most accurate method of diagnosis (1, 5, 9).
• Imaging Tests: Imaging tests such as X-ray, ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be done to rule out other conditions that may have similar symptoms. However, these tests are not typically used for definitive diagnosis (2, 4, 6, 9).

It's worth noting that pilomatrixoma is often misdiagnosed preoperatively, and a biopsy is usually necessary to confirm the diagnosis (3). Establishing care with an engaged and dedicated primary care provider may improve care and shorten the time it takes to reach an accurate diagnosis (10).

References: [1] - A tissue sample is taken from the lump and examined under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis. This is considered the most accurate method of diagnosis. [2] - Imaging tests such as X-ray, ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be done to rule out other conditions that may have similar symptoms. [3] - Pilomatrixoma is often misdiagnosed preoperatively, and a biopsy is usually necessary to confirm the diagnosis. [4] - Diagnostic tests may include: Biopsy. A tissue sample is taken and looked at under a microscope. Imaging. An X-ray, ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be done. [5] - A pilomatrixoma is often diagnosed based on how it looks and feels. Diagnostic tests may include: Biopsy. A tissue sample is taken and looked at under a microscope. [6] - Diagnostic tests may include: Biopsy. A tissue sample is taken and looked at under a microscope. Imaging. An X-ray, ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be done. [9] - Diagnostic tests may include: Biopsy. A tissue sample is taken and looked at under a microscope. Imaging. An X-ray, ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be done. [10] - Establishing care with an engaged and dedicated primary care provider may improve care and shorten the time it takes to reach an accurate diagnosis.

Unfortunately, it appears that there is no effective drug treatment for pilomatrixoma. According to the search results:

• Medical treatment of pilomatrixoma has yet to be successful [4].
• Pilomatrixoma can also be found on the scalp, eyelids, and arms. Most cases of pilomatrixoma occur in children younger than 10, but are also seen in older children and young adults. Females are twice as likely as males to have a pilomatrixoma... A pilomatrixoma will not go away or become smaller; therefore, surgical excision is the treatment [10].
• Treatment of choice is surgical excision [4]. Incomplete resections have been followed by local recurrence; wide resection is easier and less likely to recur [4].

While there are no specific drug treatments mentioned in the search results for pilomatrixoma, it's worth noting that some sources mention the use of biopsy and imaging tests (such as X-ray, ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI) to diagnose the condition [5]. However, these are diagnostic tools rather than treatment options.

It's also worth mentioning that surgical excision is considered the most effective way to treat pilomatrixoma, as it can provide both diagnosis and treatment by removing the entire lesion [11].

References: [4] Medical treatment of pilomatrixoma has yet to be successful. [10] A pilomatrixoma will not go away or become smaller; therefore, surgical excision is the treatment. [4] Incomplete resections have been followed by local recurrence; wide resection is easier and less likely to recur.

Differential Diagnosis of Pilomatrixoma

Pilomatrixoma, also known as calcifying epithelioma of Malherbe, is a benign tumor of the hair follicle matrix. When diagnosing pilomatrixoma, it's essential to consider its differential diagnosis, which includes various conditions that may present similarly.

Conditions to Consider:

• Epidermal inclusion cyst: A firm, round, or oval-shaped lesion that can be mistaken for pilomatrixoma.
• Ossifying hematoma: A condition characterized by the accumulation of blood in a confined space, which can calcify and resemble pilomatrixoma.
• Giant cell tumor: A rare, benign tumor that can occur in various bones and may present with similar symptoms to pilomatrixoma.
• Chondroma: A type of cartilage tumor that can be mistaken for pilomatrixoma due to its similar appearance.
• Dermoid cyst: A congenital anomaly that can contain skin, hair, and other tissues, which may resemble pilomatrixoma.
• Foreign body reaction: An inflammatory response to a foreign object or material, which can present with symptoms similar to pilomatrixoma.

Additional Considerations:

• Basal cell carcinoma: A type of skin cancer that can be mistaken for pilomatrixoma due to its similar appearance and location on sun-exposed areas.
• Squamous cell carcinoma: Another type of skin cancer that may present with symptoms similar to pilomatrixoma, particularly in older individuals or those with a history of sun exposure.

Clinical Variations:

Pilomatrixoma can also be confused with other conditions due to its varied clinical presentations. These include:

• Matricoma: A tumor of the same cellular constituents as pilomatrixoma but with different characteristics.
• Sebaceous cysts: A type of skin lesion that can be mistaken for pilomatrixoma due to its similar appearance.

Diagnostic Challenges:

Diagnosing pilomatrixoma can be challenging, especially when considering its differential diagnosis. A thorough clinical examination, imaging studies, and histopathological analysis are essential to confirm the diagnosis.

References:

• [1] DermNet New Zealand
• [3] A Danielson-Cohen · 2001
• [5] TKS Cypel · 2007
• [11] Pilomatrixoma. Board review style question #2.
• [14] Clinically, it was diagnosed as neurofibroma and sent for FNAC.

Note: The information provided is based on the search results within the context. If you need further clarification or would like me to expand on any point, please let me know!