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PrintA very rare, locally aggressive, malignant neoplasm of the hair follicle. The majority of the cases arise de novo, however malignant transformation from a pre-existing pilomatricoma has been reported. It usually presents as a solitary nodule in the head and neck, upper extremities, or buttocks. Morphologically, it is characterized by the presence of aggregates of basaloid cells infiltrating the dermis. Masses of ghost cells are present in the cellular aggregates. Complete surgical excision is the treatment of choice. If it is not completely removed, it usually recurs, but it rarely metastasizes to distant anatomic sites.
The Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) has information and resources for patients, caregivers, and families that may be helpful before and after diagnosis of this condition. GARD is a program of the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
View reportOrphanet has a summary about this condition that may include information on the diagnosis, care, and treatment as well as other resources. Some of the information and resources are available in languages other than English. The summary may include medical terms, so we encourage you to share and discuss this information with your doctor. Orphanet is the French National Institute for Health and Medical Research and the Health Programme of the European Union.
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