Multiple pilomatrixomas in children: the need for long-term follow-up and aesthetically sensitive incisions

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Pediatric Surgery
• Oncology

Background:

• Pilomatrixomas are benign, calcified epitheliomas originating from the hair follicle.
• These tumors predominantly affect children, often appearing on the head and neck.
• Current treatment typically involves surgical excision, which can lead to significant cosmetic defects and donor site morbidity if reconstruction is needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the benefits of minimal access incisions for pediatric pilomatrixoma excision.
• To demonstrate an alternative surgical approach that may improve cosmetic outcomes.
• To highlight the importance of specialist referral for complex or recurrent cases.

Main Methods:

• Presentation of two pediatric cases of pilomatrixoma treated with minimal access incisions.
• Surgical excision technique focusing on smaller, less invasive incisions.
• Assessment of cosmetic results and patient outcomes post-surgery.

Main Results:

• Minimal access incisions resulted in favorable cosmetic outcomes in both presented cases.
• The approach potentially reduces the need for reconstructive procedures like skin grafting.
• No significant complications were reported in the short-term follow-up.

Conclusions:

• Minimal access incisions represent a viable and cosmetically superior option for pediatric pilomatrixomas.
• This technique may mitigate the drawbacks associated with traditional surgical excision and reconstruction.
• Referral to specialists is crucial for managing multiple or recurrent pilomatrixomas in children.