PILAR TUMOR - A DISTINCTIVE TYPE OF TRICHILEMMOMA

  • 1 January 1982
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 5  (3) , 157-167
Abstract
A series of pilar tumors is presented. Although they are predominantly tumors of the elderly female, they occur also in men and in middle age. Some 90% occur on the scalp or nape of the neck; about 10% affect other areas. Most tumors outside the scalp involve the trunk; they are rare on the extremities. Evidence is presented that most arise from pre-existing pilar cysts. Two tumors recurred, but were cured by re-excision. Four tumors exhibited histological and/or cytological criteria of malignancy. Two of these were interpreted as in situ carcinomas, and 2 as combined invasive and in situ carcinomas. None is known to have metastasized or to have behaved aggressively. The prognosis of pilar tumors is excellent whatever the histological appearance. The nature of the lesion and the problems of nomenclature associated with it are associated.