Dermatofibroma is extra skin growth that is often benign (non cancerous) found on the legs. It grows like a scar or fiber like tissues under the skin. It is known by other names like fibrous histiocytoma, fibrous dermatofibroma and sclerosing hemangioma. It occurs either as single scar or in multiple lumps. The extra growth on the skin is clearly marked by brown or purple color and is hard to touch. Very often the tissues are non cancerous and does not cause any problem. For unknown reasons, women are more prone to get dermatofibroma than men.
Causes :
This extra skin growth often occurs due to skin injury caused by pricks and insect bites. The soft cells on the skin slowly begin to regenerate to grow like fibrous tissues. Some believe that this is hereditary in nature and runs for families. Age also is another factor that triggers hardening of skin which may develop into fiber like tissues later.
Symptoms :
The scar appears in the form of small extra skin growth measuring half to one cm in diameter. It may either be reddish or brownish in color. The fibrous tissue may look shiny and sometimes have scaly patches on it. Very often it occurs on legs but on rare occasions it is seen on the face and arms. The tissues are seen to bend inward when you squeeze them with your finger. It is harmless and do not cause any pain, but it can bleed if hurt or damaged. The development of skin growth is a process and it may take several days or months for it to develop.
Diagnoses :
Skin biopsy is done in which a small portion of the affected skin is cut off and checked for the presence of cancerous cells. The lump is examined under a microscope for knowing its nature. In case you see any abnormal skin growth or lump on the legs, do not hesitate to consult your doctor. It is better to rule out any abnormal cancer growth in initial stages than waiting for it to grow big.
Pictures of Dermatofibroma :
Images, Pics, Pictures and Photos of Dermatofibroma
Treatment :
Often dermatofibroma does not require any treatment. Since it occurs only on legs it is not noticed commonly. However you can get it tested for cancer and make sure the lump is only benign.
For cosmetic purpose, your doctor may remove the lump using surgical incision or by using local anesthesia. Many women prefer to remove the lumps due to its unsightly appearance. Care should be taken to remove the growth of the lump from the root. It is shaved off using surgical knife but it may leave a scar on the skin.