Dermatofibroma

A dermatofibroma is a benign, round growth commonly found on the legs and arms. What causes them is not always known but dermatofibromas are thought to be the result of trauma to the skin (i.e. scratch, bug bite) as they are made of scar tissue. Dermatofibromas feel like hard lumps in the skin but are harmless and never turn cancerous.

Treatment options are available but the best treatment for dermatofibromas is no treatment at all. This is because dermatofibromas have a propensity to grow back. Approximately half of all surgically removed dermatofibromas return after removal. If surgical removal is still preferred, the growth is completely cut out deep within the skin and leaves a significant scar. Superficial surgery and cryosurgery (liquid nitrogen) to destroy the outermost part of the growth are also options, but the lesion may eventually grow back and become noticeable after some years. Usually any growth is slight and can be handled by another treatment. 

If there is any unusual change or marked regrowth of a dermatofibroma, please contact our office to schedule an appointment to have the lesion checked.