Causes and risk factors
The exact cause of cylindroma is not known. The melanocytes undergo an uncontrolled and abnormal proliferation. Genetic predisposition is one of the major causes. Mutation in CYLD gene causes cylindroma. It is an inherited autosomal recessive disease. People with weak immune system, (e.g., suffering from HIV) are more prone to skin tumors.
Clinical presentation
Cylindroma is more commonly seen in head and neck regions. The tumors either occur singly or are multiple. Multiple tumors are more commonly seen in adulthood while solitary tumors occur more commonly seen in middle age. The tumors have a firm, rubbery consistency and are red, dark pink, or blue in color. They are small in size or can be large as 6 cm. Multiple tumors often resemble a bunch of grapes or appear as small tomatoes. They do not cause any symptom.
Investigations
Diagnosis is done on the basis of symptoms narrated by the patient and the examination carried out by the dermatologist. Head to toe examination is carried out. Dermatoscopic examination is carried out. Biopsy is the diagnostic test for cynlindromas. Along with it histological examination can also be done.
Treatment:
Surgical excision of the tumor is the main line of treatment. Usually it is done for small and single cylindromas. For multiple cylindromas along with surgical excision, plastic surgery is also needed. Carbon dioxide therapy is usually done in cases of small tumors. Certain other modes of treatment like cryotherapy, electrodessication can also be adopted.
Other modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up with the symptom. Taking into consideration the symptoms in a holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms.
