How to Distinguish Dermatofibroma From a Mole

The definition of a dermatofibroma is more simple than the complex name for this condition implies. In short, a dermatofibroma is a benign skin bump that occurs most commonly on the legs. It is firm and slightly elevated. Dermatofibroma is larger under the skin than can be seen just by looking.

Dermatofibromas are normally dome-shaped and often darker-colored papules. The growths range from brownish to purplish-red in color. They can begin as red and later change to brown. While common on the legs, they can be found throughout the body but especially on exposed parts.

Dermatofibromas may itch because they're often caused by bug bites. Splinters and minor injuries are common culprits for the appearance of dermatofibromas as well.

Dermatofibromas are commonly called histiocytomas, but medical professionals use a number of other names for the bumps as well. The following names may be found on a pathology report, but they all refer to dermatofibromas: fibroma simplex, benign fibrous histiocytoma, nodular subepidermal fibrosis, sclerosing hemangioma or dermal dendrocytoma.

Sometimes a dermatofibroma is confused with a mole. The way to tell the difference between the two is to pinch the bump. If you pinch a dermatofibroma, it creates a dimple because it is attached to the underlying subcutaneous tissue. On the other hand, if you pinch a mole, it projects up away from the skin. Moles appear when skin cells grow in clusters.

While dermatofibromas are usually red, brown or purplish, moles can be tan, black, blue or pink in addition to the typical dermatofibroma's color. Moles can appear in both exposed and unexposed areas of the body, including the armpits or even under nails.

Because dermatofibromas are benign (they do not cause cancer) doctors usually do not excise them. In fact, excising the skin growth may produce a scar that's more severe in appearance than the original dermatofibroma. If your physician is unclear about whether you have a dermatofibroma or another type of skin growth, you may have to undergo a biopsy.

A doctor may also recommend treatment for a dermatofibroma if it's in a sensitive area, interferes with your grooming routine, or you experience irritation from wearing clothing as a result of the growth.

Treating a dermatofibroma involves everything from surgical removal of the top of the growth to freezing the top with liquid nitrogen or removing the center. Because these treatments don't completely remove the dermatofibroma, the growths will likely reach their original size again. If that happens, you could have the top removed once more or seek out a procedure to excise the entire growth.

If you're unsure whether you have a dermatofibroma, mole or another type of skin growth, consult your physician. Your doctor can evaluate the lump and answer any questions you have about potential problems it can cause or treatment. Remember if your skin growth turns out to be a condition more serious than a dermatofibroma, early detection is key.