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

• Hamartoma, Neurofollicular type

What is Neurofollicular Hamartoma? (Definition/Background Information)

• Neurofollicular Hamartoma is an uncommon, slow-growing benign tumor of the hair follicles. It is a painless lesion that occurs in the head and neck area, especially on the nose
• Currently, no cause or risk factors have been identified for Neurofollicular Hamartoma
• In a majority of cases, no treatment in necessary, unless it causes severe signs and symptoms or presents cosmetic concerns (it may be visually unappealing)
• The prognosis of Neurofollicular Hamartoma is generally excellent with suitable treatment

Who gets Neurofollicular Hamartoma? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Neurofollicular Hamartoma is a recently identified abnormal malformation (hamartoma) of the skin. Because it is a hamartoma, it may occur in children and adults
• Both males and females may be affected
• Individuals of all racial and ethnic background may be affected

What are the Risk Factors for Neurofollicular Hamartoma? (Predisposing Factors)

• Currently, no risk factors have been identified for Neurofollicular Hamartoma

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 Neurofollicular Hamartoma? (Etiology)

• The cause of development of Neurofollicular Hamartoma is largely unknown
• Some believe they are related to fibrofolliculoma and trichodiscoma
• Research is currently being undertaken to identify the relevant causal factors

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Neurofollicular Hamartoma?

Neurofollicular Hamartoma is typically asymptomatic, indicating that they do not present any significant signs and symptoms. However, the following features may be observed:

• It is a slow-growing tumor with a size range of 2-10 mm
• It occurs on the surface of the skin
• The lesion is usually painless and non-itchy
• These lesions are typically observed in the head and neck region (frequently on the nose)

How is Neurofollicular Hamartoma Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Neurofollicular 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
• Skin biopsy: A skin 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
• A differential diagnosis may be performed to exclude intradermal nevus and fibrous papules, since it may clinically resemble them

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 Neurofollicular Hamartoma?

Neurofollicular Hamartoma is an uncommon benign tumor and it does not cause any significant complications. However, some individuals may have concerns regarding their cosmetic appearance, since it is commonly seen on the face.

How is Neurofollicular Hamartoma Treated?

The treatment of Neurofollicular Hamartoma may involve the following:

• The healthcare provider may recommend a ‘wait and watch’ approach in many cases
• In a majority of cases, removal of the tumor is not necessary, unless it causes bothersome signs and symptoms
• The treatment is a complete surgical excision

How can Neurofollicular Hamartoma be Prevented?

Currently, there are no known methods to prevent Neurofollicular Hamartoma occurrence.

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

The prognosis for Neurofollicular Hamartoma is excellent with appropriate treatment, since it is a benign tumor.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Neurofollicular Hamartoma:

• There is no evidence to prove that oily foods and chocolate-based products have an influence on Neurofollicular Hamartoma formation
• 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