Dermatofibroma

Question 1

What is a dermatofibroma

Answer 1

It is a benign neoplasm of dermal fibroblasts

Question 2

What are the features of a dermatofibroma

Answer 2

More common on the lower limbs

Small pink or brown pigmented

Hemispherical nodules

Smooth in appearance

Firm woody feel (characteristic)

Part of the skin - so fully mobile over deep tissues

Question 3

What is the differential diagnosis of a dermatofibroma

Answer 3

Important to exclude malignant tumours

• Malignant melanoma
• Basal cell carcinoma

Question 4

How would you treat a dermatofibroma

Answer 4

Non-surgical:

• Leave alone if asymptomatic and if patient does not want intervention

Surgical:

• Simple excision followed by histology