Atrophic Dermatofibroma: A Comprehensive Literature Review

Area of Science:

• Dermatopathology
• Oncology

Background:

• An atrophic dermatofibroma is a rare, benign fibrohistiocytic neoplasm.
• It typically presents as an asymptomatic patch with a depressed central area.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the clinical and pathological features of atrophic dermatofibroma.
• To provide a comprehensive understanding of this unique dermatofibroma variant.

Main Methods:

• Literature review using PubMed with keywords: atrophic, dermatofibroma, elastic, and fibers.
• Analysis of clinical and pathological images from two patient cases.
• Comprehensive review of existing literature.

Main Results:

• 102 cases reported, predominantly in women over 48, often on the shoulder, lower extremity, or back.
• Dermoscopy shows white scar-like patches; pathology reveals epidermal changes and dermal thinning (≥50%) with decreased/absent elastic fibers.
• Immunoperoxidase profile is factor XIIIa-positive and CD34-negative.

Conclusions:

• Atrophic dermatofibroma is an uncommon benign variant diagnosed via clinical suspicion, dermatoscopy, and biopsy.
• Periodic evaluation of the lesion site is advised for residual tumor management.