DERMATOFIBROMAS
Deramtofibromas are benign, relatively common skin nodules that may occur on any body surface, but appear most frequently on the lower legs. They form a firm, fibrous growth that feels like a small button or pea fixed to the skin surface. The cause is unknown, although trauma, such as insect bites, has been thought to induce some lesions.
Treatment
No treatment is necessary unless the lesions enlarge rapidly, become painful, or undergo repeated trauma, such as shaving the top off while shaving one’s legs. The lesions can be easily removed by minor surgical excision in a dermatologist's office. When considering removal, one should balance the present appearance of the dermatofibroma with the probable scar that will remain after the excision.
GRANULOMA ANNULARE
Granuloma annulare is a benign, non-contagious skin condition most commonly seen in children and young adults. It usually presents as skin colored, red-to-purple, dome shaped papules, often arranged in a complete or half circle. The most common location is on the backs of the hands, tops of the feet, ankles, wrists, elbows, arms, and legs. Because of the circular appearance, occasionally a fungus infection (ringworm) is mistakenly suspected. Usually the bumps do not itch or hurt.
When the appearance is not typical, a skin biopsy may be needed to establish the diagnosis. The biopsy shows a localized deterioration of the supporting collagen fibers in the dermis (the middle layer of skin).
Treatment
The cause of granuloma annular is not known, but we do know that the lesions usually resolve within two years. There are several treatments which may hasten the resolution in cases where appearance is a concern. In summary, granuloma annulare is an interesting skin condition, but it is neither serious nor contagious.
LIPOMAS
Lipomas are common, benign tumors, composed of mature fat cells, which grow under the skin and typically appear as round or oval lumps. These growths are generally harmless, and it is doubtful whether they ever undergo malignant changes. While they may occur anywhere on the body, they typically show up on the neck, trunk, abdomen, forearms, buttocks, and thighs.
How can you tell a lipoma from a potentially serious problem?
You can't. If you have a mysterious lump or new growth, it warrants professional examination. Some growths may be diagnosed visually, but for some, your dermatologist may need a biopsy to be certain. Skin cancers are among the most easily cured cancers if they are diagnosed and treated early.
Treatment
Treatment is usually not required unless there is a notable change in the lump. In such cases, a biopsy may be recommended. Generally, removal is only recommended if the lipoma causes pain, pressure, irritation, or if it is growing. Some people also choose to have a lipoma removed for cosmetic reasons. Liposuction and surgical excision are both effective means of removing lipomas.
PITYRIASIS ROSEA
Pityriasis rosea is a common, harmless skin disease. Pityriasis rosea often begins with the appearance of a scaly, large, pink, "herald" or "mother" patch on the chest or back. This is followed by more pink, oval patches on the body, arms, and legs within a week or two that may assume the outline of an evergreen tree with drooping branches.
The cause is unknown, but we do know that:
- A single scaling spot often appears 1-20 days before the general rash. The rash covers mainly the trunk, but may spread to the thighs, upper arms, and neck. Pityriasis rosea usually avoids the face; sometimes a few spots spread to the cheeks.
- Pityriasis rosea is not contagious.
- Pityriasis rosea clears up in about three to six weeks, sometimes a little longer. When clear, the skin returns to its normal appearance. There will be no scars.
- About half of those afflicted with pityriasis rosea also experience severe itching. Some experience tiredness and aching before the rashes fade.
- Pityriasis rosea is not related to food, medicines, or nervous upsets.
- Pityriasis rosea always disappears by itself.
- While pityriasis rosea may occur at any age, it is most common between the ages of 10 and 35 years.
- Second attacks of pityriasis rosea are rare.
Treatment
Nature always cures this disorder, albeit sometimes slowly. Treatment doesn’t speed the cure. The rash of pityriasis rosea is irritated by soap, so bathe or shower with plain water. This rash makes the skin dry. Therefore, it helps to put a thin coating of bath oil on your freshly dried skin after a shower or bath.
If the rash itches, treatment with a cortisone cream usually brings prompt relief. The cortisone treatments do not cure pityriasis rosea; it will only make you more comfortable while getting over the rash. In the rare instances where itching is severe, ultraviolet light treatments are often helpful.
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