Causes and risk factors
The cause responsible for development of this tumor is yet to be known. However, study of various cases and researches done have shown that it is commonly associated with certain diseases like viral infection particularly caused by human papilloma virus or neoplasm occurring elsewhere in the body. Trichilemmoma also seems to be associated with certain skin disorders like trichoblastoma, sebaceous nevus or sebaceous adenoma. Trichilemmoma is one of the common presentations seen in Cowden disease.
Clinical presentation:
Formation of an eruption filled with fluid (papule) which are skin colored and which vary in size ranging from 1-5 mm in diameter is the characteristic feature seen. These papules grow slowly and are typically seen on the ears, face, neck, forearms, and hands. These eruptions resemble like cutaneous horn or verruca. No other subjective symptoms are complained by the patient; however, it interferes with the cosmetic look of the patient.
Investigations:
The symptoms of the patient are taken into consideration and a local examination is carried out by the dermatologist. To find out the underlying disease, certain investigations like complete blood count, cultures, and various imaging tests along with ECG and histological examinations are carried out. A skin biopsy can also be done.
Treatment:
There is no effective conservative line of treatment for this condition. If there is any associated condition, it needs to be treated. For cosmetic reasons, removal of the lesion needs to be done. Curettage or electrodessication can be done. Carbon dioxide laser therapy or microscopic surgery is found to be effective.
Other Modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up with the symptoms. Taking into consideration the symptoms in a holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbs and synthetic derivatives can also be beneficial in combating the complaints.
