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Eruptive vellus hair cysts
Julie K Karen1, Marissa Heller, Sue Ann Wee
1New York University Department of Dermatology, USA.
Dermatology Online Journal
|May 22, 2007
Summary
Eruptive vellus hair cysts are benign skin growths that appear as small bumps. While often asymptomatic, they can cause cosmetic concerns, and spontaneous resolution is uncommon, making treatment difficult.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Histopathology
Background:
- Eruptive vellus hair cysts (EVHC) are a rare, benign skin condition.
- EVHC can be inherited or acquired, presenting as multiple follicular papules.
Observation:
- A 20-year-old male presented with asymptomatic follicular papules on his abdomen.
- Microscopic examination confirmed the diagnosis of vellus hair cysts.
Findings:
- EVHC is characterized by the presence of numerous vellus hair within dilated follicular infundibula.
- The primary patient concern is cosmetic disability, with occasional pruritus.
Implications:
- Spontaneous remission occurs in approximately 25% of cases.
- Treatment for persistent EVHC can be challenging and often yields unsatisfactory results.
- Further research into effective treatment modalities for EVHC is warranted.
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