Paraffinomas of the scalp

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Pathology

Background:

• Unusual benign tumors of the scalp, known as scalp paraffinomas, are caused by intradermal injections of paraffin-based substances.
• These injections were historically marketed through advertisements for baldness cures.

Observation:

• Four cases of scalp paraffinoma were diagnosed within the past year.
• Patients had received injections 35–42 years prior.
• Two patients presented with severe scalp inflammation, while two were asymptomatic with palpable lumps.

Findings:

• Paraffin presence in excised tissue was confirmed using thin-layer chromatography and infrared absorption spectrophotometry.
• Xeroradiography proved valuable in diagnosing cases, particularly asymptomatic ones, by excluding other conditions.
• This imaging technique potentially obviated the need for biopsies in asymptomatic individuals.

Implications:

• Highlights the long-term consequences of historical cosmetic procedures.
• Emphasizes the diagnostic utility of xeroradiography in identifying subcutaneous foreign bodies.
• Suggests a need for awareness among clinicians regarding rare, delayed-onset complications from past cosmetic treatments.