Case Report
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World J Dermatol. Feb 2, 2013; 2(1): 8-10
Published online Feb 2, 2013. doi: 10.5314/wjd.v2.i1.8
Progressive nodular fibrosis of the skin: A pediatric case
Elisa Guareschi, Simonetta Piana, Vito Di Lernia
Elisa Guareschi, Vito Di Lernia, Unit of Dermatology, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova-IRCCS, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy
Simonetta Piana, Unit of Pathology, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova-IRCCS, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy
Author contributions: Guareschi E wrote paper; Piana S performed pathological examinations; Di Lernia V organized the report.
Correspondence to: Vito Di Lernia, MD, Unit of Dermatology, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova-IRCCS, Viale Risorgimento 80, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy. vito.dilernia@asmn.re.it
Telephone: +39-522-296873 Fax: +39-522-295708
Received: January 8, 2013
Revised: January 18, 2013
Accepted: January 29, 2013
Published online: February 2, 2013
Processing time: 99 Days and 6.7 Hours
Abstract

The term fibromatosis describes fibrotic tumor-like lesions of the skin which are seen in all age groups. They may be congenital or acquired and occur as single or multiple lesions. Classification of fibromatosis includes several clinical and pathologic variants. Progressive nodular fibrosis of the skin is a rare condition which has been scarcely reported in the literature and never in pediatric age. The clinical presentation is not specific showing asymptomatic, reddish-brown nodules. Histology shows abundance of spindle-shaped dermal fibroblasts. Here we describe an unusual pediatric case and discuss the diagnosis, which is possible only with histopathology, and the importance of differential diagnosis.

Keywords: Fibromatosis; Nodules; Childhood

Core tip: Progressive nodular fibrosis of the skin is a rare condition characterized by asymptomatic, reddish-brown nodules resembling hypertrophic scars. Histology shows abundance of spindle-shaped dermal fibroblasts. It is mandatory to achieve a correct diagnosis.