Pediatric Pilomatrixoma

A pilomatrixoma is a slow-growing, noncancerous (benign) skin tumor of the hair follicle. It's most common on the face and neck, but it may be on other parts of the body. A pilomatrixoma is often a single lump. But sometimes there may be more than one. These lumps are more common in children and young adults than in older adults.

Pilomatrixomas develop when cells harden and form a lump under the skin.

It is not clear what causes these growths. They may be more common in some families than others. They may also happen with certain genetic conditions.

Here are the most common symptoms of a pilomatrixoma:

• A small, hard lump forms beneath the skin, often on the face or neck.
• The skin covering the lump looks normal or may have a blue color.
• The lump is often painless, unless it becomes infected.

The symptoms can seem like other health conditions. Make sure your child sees their doctor.

A pilomatrixoma is often diagnosed based on how it looks and feels. Tests may include:

• Biopsy. A tissue sample is taken and looked at under a microscope.
• Imaging. An X-ray, ultrasound, CT scan or MRI may be done.

Specific treatment of pilomatrixoma will be determined by your child's doctor based on:

• Your child's age, overall health and medical history
• Extent of the condition
• Your child's tolerance for specific medications, procedures or therapies
• Expectations for the course of the condition
• Your opinion or preference

Treatment may include surgery to remove the mass and some of the surrounding tissue.