What is a Pilomatrix Carcinoma?
Pilomatrix Carcinoma is a rare type of skin cancer that begins in hair follicle cells. Normally, these cells help in the growth of hair, but in this disease, they start to grow in an abnormal and uncontrolled way, forming a hard lump under the skin. Most often, this lump appears on the head, neck, or upper body.
Symptoms
It can affect both men and women, usually in middle age or later. In the beginning, a person may notice a small, firm lump under the skin that slowly becomes bigger.
The lump may feel hard like a stone, and the skin over it may change in color or become ulcerated. Sometimes it can be painful or tender, but many times it grows silently without much discomfort. As it becomes larger, it may break through the skin, forming a wound that does not heal easily.
Diagnosis
To identify this illness, the lump is examined closely and a small piece is tested under the microscope to see the type of cells. This is important because pilomatrix carcinoma can sometimes look similar to other skin growths, but it is more aggressive.
Treatment
The main treatment is surgery to remove the lump completely, along with some of the surrounding tissue to make sure no cancer cells are left behind. If the lump grows back or spreads to nearby areas, additional treatments like radiation or medicines may be needed.
Prognosis
The outcome depends on how early the lump is removed. If it is caught early and taken out completely, chances of a cure are good. But if it is left untreated, it can spread to other parts of the body, making treatment more difficult.
In simple words, pilomatrix carcinoma is a rare skin cancer that often appears as a hard lump on the skin, usually on the head or neck. Early removal gives the best chance of cure, while delay can make it more dangerous.
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Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways: