Multiple pilomatricomas: cutaneous marker for myotonic dystrophy

Dermatol Online J. 2008 Jul 15;14(7):22.

Abstract

We report an interesting case of multiple pilomatricomas (MPs) in a patient with myotonic dystrophy. Pilomatricoma (calcifying epithelioma of Malherbe) is a benign tumor of hair matrix derivation. It usually occurs as a solitary, firm, asymptomatic nodule on the face, neck, or proximal upper extremity. Most pilomatricomas have activating mutations in the ss-catenin gene (encoded by CTNNB1), leading to involvement of the WNT signaling pathway. The resulting gene product activates transcription leading to tumorigenesis [1]. Since the onset of MPs may precede the signs of myotonic dystrophy, they can serve as potential early cutaneous markers for this systemic disease.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Letter

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Biomarkers, Tumor / analysis*
  • Biopsy, Needle
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Genetic Testing
  • Hair Diseases / genetics
  • Hair Diseases / pathology*
  • Hair Diseases / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Male
  • Myotonic Dystrophy / genetics
  • Myotonic Dystrophy / pathology*
  • Pilomatrixoma / genetics
  • Pilomatrixoma / pathology*
  • Pilomatrixoma / physiopathology
  • Risk Assessment
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Skin Neoplasms / genetics
  • Skin Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Skin Neoplasms / physiopathology

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor