Pilomatrixomas in children: Report of 149 cases. A retrospective study at two children's hospitals

Abstract

A pilomatrixoma is a benign skin tumor common in children, which develops from the matrix cells of hair follicles. It presents as a nodule or tumor of approximately 0.5-3 cm in size, with calcium-like consistency, faceted edges, and blue erythematous overlying skin. Sometimes, the skin may atrophy and look like a blister or even extrude calcium. Diagnosis is suspected based on the typical clinical presentation and supplementary imaging tests. The definite diagnosis is made according to histological findings. Surgical removal is the treatment of choice. Here we describe the epidemiological and clinical data, supplementary tests, and surgical techniques in relation to 149 pilomatrixomas resected in 137 patients treated at the Departments of Dermatology of two children's hospitals: Dr. Pedro de Elizalde and Prof. Dr. Juan P. Garrahan.