Multiple Eruptive Dermatofibromas in a Healthy Female: A Case Report

Authors: Dhattarwal N

DOI: 10.23880/cdoaj-16000337

Volume 9, Issue 4

Abstract

Dermatofibromas (DF) are benign fibrohistiocytic tumours usually manifesting as solitary brown nodules on lower limbs of young-middle aged females. Multiple DFs are rare and associated with autoimmune conditions and immunosuppression. We report a case of multiple DFs in a healthy 45 year old female. A 45 year old female presented with asymptomatic brown hyperpigmented nodular lesions all over her body. The lesions first appeared on her back 12 years ago and have been progressively increasing in number to involve the rest of her body. Dimple sign was positive. Histopathology revealed acanthosis, large grenz zone with dense collection of fibro-histiocytes in dermis. Family history was negative and routine investigations, HIV, autoimmune and malignancy workup revealed no underlying abnormalities. Patient was counselled regarding benign nature of the tumor and is under regular follow up. Dermatofibromas are benign dermal and subcutaneous proliferations of histiocyte-like and fibroblast-like cells. Multiple DFs is defined as presence of >15 lesions and occur in patients of autoimmune diseases, immunosuppressed states and hematologic malignancies. It is hypothesized that DF arise due to an immune reactive process in which dermal antigen presenting cells activate immune system in response to these conditions. Our case of multiple DFs occurring in healthy female shows that they are not necessarily reactionnal tumors. An extensive workup to rule out any underlying condition should be done in all cases but may not necessarily reveal an abnormality.

Keywords: Dermatofibromas; Fibrohistiocytic Tumors; Solitary Brown Nodules; HIV

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