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Unsuspected Malignant Mimicry From Topical Vitamin E and Micro Spike Roller
Jacob Hauser1, Traeden Wilson2, Chelsea Huang3
1Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California, USA.
Head & Neck
|November 22, 2024
Summary
Topical vitamin E, used in anti-aging products, can cause rare but severe skin reactions. This case shows a chin lesion mimicking cancer, highlighting diagnostic challenges.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Cosmetic Science
Background:
- Topical vitamin E is widely used for its antioxidant and anti-aging benefits.
- Cutaneous reactions to vitamin E are uncommon and diagnostically challenging.
Observation:
- A 46-year-old female presented with a severe inflammatory chin lesion after using topical vitamin E oil with a micro-spike roller.
- Clinical presentation revealed a friable, fungating mass suspicious for malignancy.
Findings:
- Biopsy ruled out malignancy, showing chronic inflammation with xanthogranulomatous-like features.
- The lesion significantly improved with intralesional corticosteroid (Kenalog) injections over 18 months.
- Scar revision surgery provided cosmetic enhancement.
Implications:
- This case underscores the rare but diverse presentations of vitamin E-induced cutaneous reactions.
- Such reactions can clinically mimic skin malignancies, necessitating careful diagnosis.
- Awareness of these potential adverse effects is crucial in cosmetic and dermatologic practice.
