Dermatofibroma

What is Dermatofibroma?

Dermatofibroma, also known as Fibrous Histiocytoma, is a benign skin nodule that typically presents as a small, firm bump on the skin. These nodules are non-cancerous and generally harmless, though they can sometimes cause discomfort or itching. Dermatofibromas are most often found on the legs but can appear anywhere on the body. They are usually brownish-red and may have a darker centre, often feeling firm to the touch and being slightly raised above the skin’s surface.

Dermatofibromas form as a result of an overgrowth of fibrous tissue within the dermis layer of the skin. Several factors are believed to contribute to their formation:

1. Skin Injury: Minor skin injuries, such as insect bites, thorn pricks, or small cuts, can trigger dermatofibroma.
2. Genetic Factors: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to developing dermatofibromas.
3. Immune Response: An abnormal immune response to trauma or inflammation in the skin.

Where Dermatofibroma appears on the body

Dermatofibromas can appear anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the lower legs, upper arms, and upper back. They are generally singular lesions, although some individuals may develop multiple nodules. Dermatofibromas are more frequently seen in adults and are slightly more common in women than in men.

Aftercare following a Dermatofibroma treatment

Proper aftercare is essential to ensure the best results and to minimise the risk of complications following the CryoPen treatment. Here are the key aftercare steps:

1. Keep the Area Clean and Dry: For the first few days after treatment.
2. Avoid Picking or Scratching: This can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of scarring.
3. Antiseptic Cream: We may recommend applying an antiseptic cream to promote healing and prevent infection.
4. Protect from Sun Exposure: Use a high-SPF sunscreen or cover the area with clothing. Sun exposure can cause pigmentation changes and delay healing.
5. Monitor Healing: Keep an eye on the treated area for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or pus. If you notice any concerning symptoms, contact Skin Revision.

 

Dermatofibroma is a benign skin growth characterised by a mass of fibrous tissue. It is also known as a Fibrous Histiocytoma. It typically appears as a small, raised nodule on the skin’s surface. These nodules can range in colour, from reddish-brown to purplish or even a light brown colour. Dermatofibromas are most commonly found on the lower extremities, but they can occur on any part of the body including the face, forehead, nose, cheeks and chin.

Dermatofibroma is often formed due to a minor trauma or irritation to the skin. This could include insect bites, ingrown hairs, or other small injuries. The body’s reaction to these incidents involves the overproduction of fibrous tissue which results in the development of a firm nodule / Dermatofibroma.

Characteristics: Dermatofibromas are usually small and measure around 0.5 to 1 centimeter in diameter. They are firm to the touch and often have a depressed centre when pressed. They are generally harmless but can cause anxiety to some people or cause mild discomfort due to itching or tenderness.

The most noticeable sign of Dermatofibroma is the presence of a raised nodule on the skin. They are commonly reddish-brown or darker than the surrounding skin. The nodules are typically well-defined and may have a slightly different texture than the surrounding tissue.

While Dermatofibromas are usually painless, some individuals may experience itching or tenderness in the affected area. Scratching or excessive irritation can lead to increased discomfort.

Dermatofibromas commonly occur on the legs, particularly the lower legs, but they can also be found on the arms and other parts of the body including the face.

Dermatofibromas are diagnosed through a physical examination by a skin clinic such as Skin Revision in Buckinghamshire near Berkshire.

No, Dermatofibromas are benign (non-cancerous) and generally do not pose any health risks. However, they can be bothersome or look a little unsightly to some people. By having them removed at a reputable skin clinic, such as Skin Revision, they will feel more confident in the way their skin looks and feels.

At Skin Revision, we treat Dermatofibromas using two advanced methods: CryoPen and Plaxel Plasma.

CryoPen: Utilises extreme cold (cryotherapy) to freeze at minus 89 degrees. This destroys the Dermatofibroma tissue.
Plaxel Plasma: Uses plasma energy to remove the growth by vaporising the tissue at the cellular level.

A CryoPen treatment is a quick and minimally invasive. The CryoPen emits a precise jet of nitrous oxide, which freezes and destroys the Dermatofibroma tissue at minus 89 degrees. The treatment usually takes only a few minutes and does not require a local anaesthetic. Certain individuals may feel a slight stinging sensation during the procedure, but it is generally well-tolerated with just very mild discomfort.

The Plaxel Plasma treatment for Dermatofibroma in the Buckinghamshire skin clinic, involves using a handheld device that generates plasma energy. This energy precisely targets the Dermatofibroma, and vaporises the tissue, without affecting the surrounding skin. The procedure is minimally invasive, and a topical anesthetic may be applied to ensure comfort. The treatment duration varies based on the size and number of Dermatofibromas being treated.

The number of treatments required can vary depending on the size and depth of the Dermatofibroma. Often, one to two sessions with CryoPen or Plaxel Plasma are sufficient to remove the growth. During your consultation at Skin Revision, your skin expert, Jacqui Bannister, will evaluate Dermatofibroma and advise on which treatment she feels is best, the cost, the liklihood of success and any aftercare requirements.

Dermatofibroma can be treated on all skin types including Black skin, Indian skin and Asian skin types. Aftercare instrucations as given by your skin expert at Skin Revision.

Recovery time is minimal for both CryoPen and Plaxel Plasma treatments. You may experience some redness, swelling, or blistering at the treatment site, which typically resolves within a few days to a week. It is important to follow aftercare instructions provided by Jacqui at Skin Revision. This advice will ensure optimal healing.

With all treatments the level of risk will vary. At your skin consultation you will be advised of the associated risks of the Dermatofibroma treatment. You will be advised if there is a risk of scarring or pigmentation for example. You will not be treated if it is decided at your consultation that you are not a good candidate for a Dermatofibroma treatment.