Cutaneous pilar leiomyoma: case report and analysis of therapeutic possibilities

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Cutaneous pilar leiomyoma (CPL) is a rare benign skin tumor arising from arrector pili muscles. Its most common clinical manifestation is the appearance of nodules that may either be isolated or clustered. In general, these tumors are painful and sensitive to cold, touch, pressure, and emotional stimuli. Several pharmacological agents have been used with some success to reduce local pain and discomfort. However, in cases with intensely painful symptoms or that cause social constraints to the patient, surgery becomes an alternative approach. Here, we report the case of a male patient with multiple cutaneous leiomyomas in the left anterior chest wall and abdomen, and the therapeutic approaches used for this case.

Methods:

The treatment included a complete surgical resection of the tumor and wound closure with partial skin graft taken from the anterolateral region of the right thigh.

Results:

The immediate reconstruction of the resulting defect with a partial skin graft ensured healing without complications. After the treatment, complete remission of the pain symptoms occurred, in addition to an acceptable aesthetic outcome, which allowed the full social reintegration of the patient.

Conclusion:

CPL is a disease that is difficult to treat; however, several therapeutic approaches can be used. The complete surgical resection of multiple cutaneous leiomyomas can prevent the recurrence of the disease, although some local recurrences have been reported in the literature.

Keywords:
Leiomyoma; Skin graft; Reconstructive surgical procedures