An alternative diagnostic method of eruptive vellus hair cysts: Report of a familial case with pruritus

Abstract

Eruptive vellus hair cysts (EVHC) represent a developmental abnormality of vellus hair follicles. Up till now more than 150 cases of EVHC have been published in the literature, but it appears to be more common than recognized. The diagnostic hallmark is the presence of vellus hair shafts within the cystic space. Firstly to evaluate the potential benefit of new diagnostic method of EVHC using a dermatoscope and secondly to report a familial case of EVHC where females were only affected. Five women from the same family with a clinical diagnosis of EVHC were included in the study. The diagnosis of EVHC was confirmed by skin biopsy with histologic examination in four patients. New diagnostic approach of the cyst contents examination with using a handheld dermatoscope was performed in all patients. Numerous vellus hair shafts were detected on the images of the cysts content taken with dermatoscope and applying the above-mentioned method in all patients. We suggest that it seems possible to differentiate EVHC by using the dermatoscope, which appears to be simple, quick, and less time consuming. K E Y W O R D Seruptive vellus hair cyst, diagnosis, dermoscopy

Trichoscopy beyond scalp. A narrative review

“…A sterile 30‐gauge needle was used to prick the skin on top of the papule and squeeze the cyst gently. The cystic content was placed on a glass slide and examined by dermatoscope, which revealed numerous vellus hair shafts 71 …”

“…The cystic content was placed on a glass slide and examined by dermatoscope, which revealed numerous vellus hair shafts. 71…”