SNP Shot: Genomic Insights

Pilomatricoma, also called pilomatrixoma, is a harmless (benign) skin growth that originates from hair follicles. These follicles are the skin structures responsible for hair production. These tumors typically appear on the head and neck, but can also develop on the arms, torso, or legs. They feel like small, firm nodules beneath the skin. Pilomatricomas are slow-growing and typically painless, with most people developing only one. Surgical removal is usually effective, and the tumor rarely returns.

While pilomatricomas are most common in individuals younger than 20, they can occur at any age. Almost all are benign, but in rare cases, they can be cancerous (malignant). This malignant form, known as pilomatrix carcinoma, is more frequently seen in middle-aged or older adults.

Typically, pilomatricoma occurs on its own (isolated). However, in rare instances, it has been linked to inherited conditions. These associated disorders include Gardner syndrome (characterized by polyps and cancers in the colon and rectum), myotonic dystrophy (a type of muscular dystrophy), and Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome (a condition affecting multiple body systems and increasing the risk of various tumors, both benign and malignant).

Inheritance:

In most cases of isolated pilomatricoma, there's no family history of the condition. However, there have been rare reports of families with multiple affected members. When pilomatricoma runs in families, the pattern of inheritance, if any, is currently unknown.