What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• BFH (Basaloid Follicular Hamartoma)

What is Basaloid Follicular Hamartoma? (Definition/Background Information)

• Basaloid Follicular Hamartoma (BFH) is a benign, hair follicle tumor of skin. It is a hamartoma, meaning an abnormal growth, and it is observed in young and middle-aged adults
• The tumor is usually painless and solitary, and can be present anywhere in the body; the most common location is the face and scalp
• Basaloid Follicular Hamartoma may be associated with many genetic disorders such as generalized BFH syndrome, Brown-Crounse syndrome, and Gorlin syndrome. The cause of the condition may be genetic (hereditary)
• In a majority of cases, no treatment is necessary, unless it causes discomfort in the individual including cosmetic issues. However, treatment of the underlying syndrome (if any present) may be necessary
• A simple surgical excision of the tumor is considered curative. The prognosis for Basaloid Follicular Hamartoma is excellent with suitable treatment, though it also depends upon the severity of any underlying disorder

Who gets Basaloid Follicular Hamartoma? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Basaloid Follicular Hamartoma is a rare condition that mostly affects individuals in the 20-40 year age group. Nevertheless, a wide age range of 20-88 years (mean age of 63 years) has been noted. This indicates that BFH can occur later during one’s life too
• BFH can be a hereditary condition. Some are known to be present at birth, which may grow in size as the child grows
• Both males and females may be affected
• Individuals of all racial and ethnic background may be affected. Worldwide, no geographical localization has been reported

What are the Risk Factors for Basaloid Follicular Hamartoma? (Predisposing Factors)

The following risk factors have been identified for Basaloid Follicular Hamartoma:

• Generalized Basaloid Follicular Hamartoma syndrome (an autosomal dominant genetic disorder)
• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) - an autoimmune disorder
• A positive family history of Basaloid Follicular Hamartoma
• Brown-Crounse syndrome
• Gorlin syndrome: Multiple BFH is seen to occur with this syndrome

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Basaloid Follicular Hamartoma? (Etiology)

The cause of development of Basaloid Follicular Hamartoma is presently unknown. It can be hereditary or acquired.

• The tumors may occur in a sporadic manner (in which case it may be solitary); multiple tumors may indicate a familial pattern. Thus, if numerous tumors appear all over the body, then it may be due to a family history of the condition
• The presence of multiple Basaloid Follicular Hamartomas are associated with various genetic syndromes such as generalized BFH syndrome, Brown-Crounse syndrome, and Gorlin syndrome

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Basaloid Follicular Hamartoma?

Basaloid Follicular Hamartoma when present at birth may continue to grow along with the child; it may stabilize in size after adolescence. It can also occur much later in life, in elderly adults (mean age 63 years).

Most Basaloid Follicular Hamartomas are asymptomatic. In some, the signs and symptoms observed include:

• It usually occurs as a single, benign tumor on the skin
• The skin over the nodules may have a slight discoloration, and sometimes, these tumors are confused with basal cell carcinomas
• BFH is usually painless and non-itchy
• It may be well-demarcated and firm to touch
• Though BFH can occur at any location in the body, it is commonly present on the face, scalp, or the chest and back
• Multiple BFH can also be seen with myasthenia gravis and diffused hair loss (alopecia). This syndrome is called Brown-Crounse syndrome
• Presence of signs and symptoms of underlying disorders or conditions, if any

Basaloid Follicular Hamartoma typically occurs as a single tumor that grows very slowly. However, multiple tumors may also be seen, when a family history of the condition is present.

How is Basaloid Follicular Hamartoma Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Basaloid Follicular Hamartoma may involve the following:

• A thorough medical history and physical examination
• Dermoscopy: It is a diagnostic tool where a dermatologist examines the skin using a special magnified lens
• Wood’s lamp examination: In this procedure, the healthcare provider examines the skin using ultraviolet light. It is performed to examine the change in skin pigmentation
• Tissue biopsy: A tissue biopsy is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. The pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis

Note: A biopsy may be performed to rule out other skin conditions with similar signs and symptoms.

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Basaloid Follicular Hamartoma?

Basaloid Follicular Hamartomas generally do not cause any significant complications, in most cases. However, the following factors may be a cause for concern:

• The presence of multiple tumors may also result in cosmetic issues
• Complications due to the presence of other genetic disorders
• Sometimes, they can rupture, become infected and release pus. When these heal, they can leave a scar behind

How is Basaloid Follicular Hamartoma Treated?

The treatment of Basaloid Follicular Hamartoma may involve the following:

• In a majority of cases, removal of the tumor is not necessary, unless it causes worrisome signs and symptoms such as cosmetic issues
• The treatment of choice is a complete surgical excision, which can result in a cure
• Systemic isotretinoin for multiple Basaloid Follicular Hamartomas
• Undertaking treatment for any underlying condition(s)

How can Basaloid Follicular Hamartoma be Prevented?

Currently, there are no known methods available to prevent the occurrence of Basaloid Follicular Hamartomas.

What is the Prognosis of Basaloid Follicular Hamartoma? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis for Basaloid Follicular Hamartoma is excellent with appropriate treatment, since it is a benign tumor
• Nevertheless, the prognosis also depends upon the presence of any underlying syndrome and the severity of the symptoms associated with it, in case of multiple Basaloid Follicular Hamartomas

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Basaloid Follicular Hamartoma:

• There is no evidence to prove that oily foods and chocolate-based products have an influence on the condition
• Cleaning the skin too hard with strong chemicals or soaps may aggravate the skin condition. Care must be taken avoid strong soaps and chemicals that could potentially worsen the condition
• The presence of dirt on the body is not a causative factor for the condition. However, it helps to be clean and hygienic, which may help the condition from getting worse