A:
A dermatofibroma is a common noncancerous (benign) growth that often develops on the legs and arms. Dermatofibromas occur on women more often than men. They usually produce no symptoms, although a common complaint by women is that they nick these growths while shaving their legs.
The cause of these growths is unknown. Some people mention a history of mild trauma, such as a mosquito bite. Dermatofibromas are not known to be inherited.
While these growths are not associated with sun exposure or skin cancer, there are good reasons to limit sun exposure. It increases the risk of developing skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma.
