Giant pilomatrixoma in the infraclavicular region following an insect bite

J Surg Case Rep. 2023 Apr 12;2023(4):rjad182. doi: 10.1093/jscr/rjad182. eCollection 2023 Apr.

Abstract

Pilomatrixoma is a benign skin tumor typically presenting as a hard, slow-growing mass arising from hair follicle matrix cells. While most encountered in children, giant pilomatrixoma seldomly presents in adults. In the present case, a large subcutaneous, nonpainful and slow-growing mass was discovered in the infraclavicular region of a 52-year-old male. Biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of giant pilomatrixoma. Despite its benign nature, tumor size and location can result in significant morbidity and cosmetic deformity. This case highlights the importance of considering pilomatrixomas in patients with a slow-growing mass, especially after an inciting event, such as an insect bite. Timely diagnosis and proper management can result in successful tumor removal with minimal cosmetic compromise.

Publication types

  • Case Reports