Pilomatrixoma cervical infantil

Abstract

Introduction: Pilomatrixoma or calcifying epithelioma of Malherbe is a benign tumor derived from hair matrix cells. It is more frequent in children and typically presents as a single, indurated nodule, usually no larger than 3 cm. Most pilomatrixomas are located in the head, neck, and upper limbs. Differential diagnosis is necessary to rule out other benign and malign neoplasms; therefore, anatomic pathological examination is indispensable after removal. Description of the case: Six-year-old male patient who presented at the ENT department with a right laterocervical mass with six months of evolution, which was painless, indurated, and not adhered to deep structures. The patient was otherwise asymptomatic. He had a history of a granuloma in the same area, which ruptured after incidental trauma. A CT scan showed a calcification of 4 mm in diameter in the subcutaneous cell tissue. A supplementary neck color-Doppler ultrasound was performed, showing central vascularization. Tumor removal by lateral cervicotomy and histological findings compatible with pilomatrixoma. After an outpatient 14-month follow-up period, the patient remained asymptomatic and his ENT examination was normal; therefore, the patient was released. Conclusions: Pilomatrixoma is a benign epithelial tumor that needs anatomic pathological examination for an accurate diagnosis.