Dermatofibromas
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Small, firm, red or
brown scar-like bumps caused by a buildup of fibroblasts (soft tissue
cells under the skin). They often happen on the legs and may itch. They
often result from trauma, like a bug bite.
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Dermatofibromas can
be surgically removed if they become painful or itchy.
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Dermoid cysts
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A noncancerous
(benign) tumor that is made up of hairs, sweat glands, and oil
(sebaceous) glands. Some internal dermoid tumors may even contain
cartilage, bone fragments, and teeth. These are rare and are usually
present at birth.
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Dermoid cysts may
be surgically removed for cosmetic reasons or if they are causing a
problem, such as on an eyelid.
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Freckles
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Darkened, flat spots
that typically appear only on sun-exposed areas of the skin. Freckles are
common in people with blond or red hair.
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No treatment is
needed for freckles.
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Keloids
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Smooth, firm,
raised, fibrous growths on the skin that form in wound sites. Keloids are
more common in African-Americans.
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Keloids respond
poorly to most treatment approaches. Injections of corticosteroid drugs
may help to flatten the keloids. Other treatment approaches may include
surgery, laser, or silicone patches to further flatten the keloids.
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Lipomas
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Round or oval lumps
under the skin caused by fatty deposits. They tend to appear on the
forearms, torso, and back of the neck.
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Lipomas are
generally harmless. But if the lipoma changes shape, a biopsy may be
advised. Treatment may include surgical removal if the lipoma bothers the
child.
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Moles (nevi)
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Small skin marks
caused by pigment-producing cells in the skin. Moles can be flat or
raised, smooth or rough, and some contain hair. Most moles are dark brown
or black. Some are skin-colored or yellowish. Moles can change over time
and often respond to hormonal changes.
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Most moles are
benign and no treatment is needed. Some benign moles may develop into
skin cancer (melanoma). See below for signs.
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Atypical moles (dysplastic nevi)
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Atypical moles are
larger than normal moles), and are not always round. Atypical moles can
be tan to dark brown, on a pink background. These types of moles may
happen anywhere on the body.
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Treatment may
include removal of any atypical mole that changes in color, shape, or
diameter. People with atypical moles should avoid sun exposure, since
sunlight may accelerate changes in atypical moles. People with atypical
moles should talk with a healthcare provider for any changes that may
indicate skin cancer.
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Pyogenic granulomas
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Red, brown, or
bluish-black, raised marks caused by excessive growth of capillaries
(small blood vessels) and swelling. Pyogenic granulomas usually form
after an injury to the skin.
They tend to bleed
easily.
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Some pyogenic
granulomas disappear without treatment. Sometimes, a biopsy is needed to
rule out cancer. Treatment may include surgical removal.
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Epidermoid cysts
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Also called epidermal inclusion cysts, these are
common benign lumps that most often don't cause discomfort unless they
become inflamed or infected. They range from a half to 2 inches in size
and are common on the back, head, and neck. They are firm and contain a
white substance.
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Treatment to remove the cyst is not needed unless the
cyst becomes inflamed, or if its location is a problem. Epidermoid cysts
generally go away without treatment but may return.
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