What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)
- Classical Trichoepithelioma
- Trichoepithelioma of Hair Follicles
What is Trichoepithelioma? (Definition/Background Information)
- Trichoepithelioma is a benign, slow-growing tumor of the hair follicles on skin
- It is an uncommon tumor that occurs on the skin as a painless nodule, usually in the head and neck region
- It can occur in children, adolescents, and young adults. The cause and risk factors for Trichoepithelioma are unknown
- In a majority of cases, no treatment is necessary, unless it causes worrisome symptoms or cosmetic concerns in the individual
- A simple surgical excision of the tumor is considered curative. The prognosis for Trichoepithelioma is excellent with suitable treatment
Who gets Trichoepithelioma? (Age and Sex Distribution)
- Trichoepithelioma can occur at any age, but is common during pubertal stage, adolescence, and early adulthood
- Both males and females may be affected with equal frequency
- Individuals of all racial and ethnic background may be affected. Worldwide, no geographical localization of Trichoepithelioma has been reported
What are the Risk Factors for Trichoepithelioma? (Predisposing Factors)
- Currently, no risk factors have been identified for Trichoepithelioma
It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one's 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 Trichoepithelioma? (Etiology)
- The cause of development of Trichoepithelioma is unknown
- Research is currently being undertaken to identify the relevant causal factors
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Trichoepithelioma?
The signs and symptoms of Trichoepithelioma include:
- It usually occurs as a single, raised nodule on the skin; it is a slow-growing tumor
- It can range in size from a few millimeters to a centimeter. However, these nodules can grow to larger sizes too
- The skin over the nodules may have a reddish discoloration
- The nodule is usually painless and non-itchy. They are mostly well-demarcated and firm to touch
- These nodules can occur all over the body, but they are commonly observed in the head and neck region (in the scalp), the chest, and upper back
- Trichoepitheliomas can be sometimes confused with basal cell carcinomas
How is Trichoepithelioma Diagnosed?
A diagnosis of Trichoepithelioma 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
- Differential diagnosis of other tumors, such as basal cell carcinoma, should be ruled out; hence, biopsy is an important diagnostic tool
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 Trichoepithelioma?
Trichoepithelioma is an uncommon tumor and it does not cause any significant complications. However, some individuals may have concerns regarding their cosmetic appearance.
How is Trichoepithelioma Treated?
The treatment of Trichoepithelioma may involve the following:
- In a majority of cases, removal of the tumor is not necessary, unless it causes bothersome signs and symptoms such as cosmetic issues
- The treatment is a complete surgical excision, which results in a cure
- Once the nodule is completely removed, it usually does not recur. An incomplete removal may result in its recurrence
- Vaporization (burning-off) of the nodule can be performed using a CO2 laser
How can Trichoepithelioma be Prevented?
Currently, there are no known methods to prevent Trichoepithelioma occurrence.
What is the Prognosis of Trichoepithelioma? (Outcomes/Resolutions)
The prognosis for Trichoepithelioma is excellent with appropriate treatment, since it is a benign tumor.
Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Trichoepithelioma:
- There is no evidence to prove that oily foods and chocolate-based products have an influence on Trichoepithelioma 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
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