Dermatofibromas are benign growths that are generally located on the lower extremities. They are four times more common in women than men, with most developing when a person is between 20 and 50 years of age.(1) They are the result of an accumulation of extra cells in the deeper layers of the skin.(2)
There is no known cause for dermatofibromas. “Some researchers theorize that a possible cause is an adverse reaction to a local trauma, such as a small injury or bug bite in the area where the lesion later forms.”(2)
Dermatofibromas are firm to the touch and can vary in color from pink to light brown in fair skin to dark brown in dark skin.(1) Diagnosis from a physician is important as other conditions may look similar to a dermatofibroma. These include:
- hypertrophic scarring or keloid;
- malignant melanoma;
- squamous cell carcinoma;
- basal cell carcinoma;
- spitz nevus;
- blue nevus.(2)
Generally, dermatofibromas do not require treatment. However, if they are irritated by clothing, get in the way of shaving, or are very noticeable, a person may seek treatment. Common treatments include surgical shaving of the top of the dermatofibroma, punching out the center, or cryosurgery.(3)
Advantages of cryosurgery include a short preparation time, low risk of infection and minimal wound care, states American Family Physician. “In addition, cryosurgery requires no expensive supplies or injectable anesthesia, and the patient does not have to return for suture removal.”(4)
Hydrozid® is an FDA cleared portable cryosurgery device, designed for primary care physicians, pediatricians, dermatologists, and podiatrists, for the treatment of dermatofibromas, actinic keratosis, skin tags, warts, and a number of additional benign and premalignant skin conditions. Qualified providers, visit our Registration page to set up an account and order.
(1) American Family Physician, Diagnosing Benign Skin Tumors, https://www.aafp.org/
(2) Johnson, J., Bard, S. MD (reviewer) Medical News Today, What to know about Dermatofibromas, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/
(3) American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, Dermatofibromas, https://www.aocd.org/page/Dermatofibroma
(4) Andrews, M. MD, American Family Physician, Cryosurgery for Common Skin Conditions, https://www.aafp.org/