Proliferating Giant Pilomatrixoma: A Case Report

Liliana Berenice Alcázar García1, Zabdy Elienai Frayre García1, Alejandra Zahaydé Grijalva Aguilar2

  • 1Dermatology, Instituto Dermatológico de Jalisco "Dr. José Barba Rubio", Guadalajara, MEX.

Cureus
|June 30, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Giant pilomatrixoma, a rare variant of a benign hair follicle tumor, can mimic malignancy. This case highlights a rapidly growing giant pilomatrixoma, emphasizing the need for complete surgical excision to prevent recurrence.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Pathology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Pilomatrixoma is a benign skin tumor originating from the hair follicle matrix.
  • It commonly affects pediatric and young adult populations.
  • Clinicopathological variants exist, including giant pilomatrixoma (≥4 cm).

Observation:

  • A 36-year-old female presented with a rapidly growing exophytic mass on her right cheek after trauma.
  • The mass raised suspicion for malignancy due to its size and rapid growth.
  • Histopathological examination revealed a proliferating pilomatrixoma.

Findings:

  • The case presented a giant pilomatrixoma, defined by its size (≥4 cm).
  • The histological subtype was identified as proliferating pilomatrixoma.
  • The tumor mimicked malignant neoplasms like angiosarcoma or amelanotic melanoma.

Implications:

  • Giant and proliferating pilomatrixoma variants require careful diagnosis to differentiate from malignant tumors.
  • Complete surgical excision is crucial for managing giant pilomatrixoma.
  • Incomplete excision can lead to local recurrence and potential malignant transformation.