Dermatofibroma

What is a dermatofibroma?

A dermatofibroma (also known as histiocytoma) is a common type of fibrous or scarring reaction that occurs in the deeper layer of the skin. Dermatofibromas are benign (harmless) and cannot turn into skin cancer.

What does a dermatofibroma look and feel like?

• They can appear anywhere but are most common on the lower legs of young to middle-aged adults, and on the upper arms in females. Dermatofibromas vary in number from one to several
• Most appear as a symmetrical smooth raised bump in the skin, seldom larger than 1 cm in diameter. Occasionally they are flat
  
• Dermatofibromas can vary in colour although in Caucasians are most commonly pink to skin-coloured in the centre and slightly brown at the edge. In skin of colour, dermatofibromas tend to be brown or black
  
• Dermatofibromas feel like a small rubbery button and may dimple (sink down) when gently squeezed between finger and thumb
  
• Usually there are no symptoms, although some can be painful if knocked. Dermatofibromas on the legs may bleed if caught, for example when shaving
  

What causes a dermatofibroma?

• They are more common in females than males
• The exact cause is unknown; however, they often appear after a minor injury to the skin such as an insect bite

How is a dermatofibroma diagnosed?

• Your healthcare professional may diagnose a dermatofibroma simply by examining you, sometimes with the aid of a dermatoscope, a small hand-held instrument that allows a much more detailed examination
• If the diagnosis is uncertain your healthcare professional might refer you to a specialist

Referral to a specialist

You may be referred to a dermatologist or a GPwER/GPwSI (a GP who has also been trained in relevant areas of dermatology). Increasingly, the initial referral may be through teledermoscopy, where a picture of your skin lesion is sent to a specialist to advise the best course of action. Occasionally, a small skin biopsy may be needed, using local anaesthetic, to confirm the diagnosis. This could be done by your GP if they are experienced in skin surgery, or a specialist.

What are the treatment options for dermatofibromas?

Most dermatofibromas persist. Because they are harmless, treatment is not usually necessary, is not often available on the NHS, and surgical removal of a dermatofibroma nearly always leaves a scar that is much more noticeable than the dermatofibroma itself.

Things you can do to help yourself

It is very important that you know how to examine your own skin and develop a better understanding of what skin cancer looks like. For more information on different types of skin cancer please read our guide on the Self-examination of Moles.

Helping with other skin conditions

If you, a family member, or friend have an undiagnosed skin condition; or you want to learn more about how to treat skin conditions, please view our short video on how to get the best from this website.