Eruptive vellus hair cysts (or EVHC) are small lesions that occur most often in the chest wall, abdomen and extremities, often with a crusted surface. EVHC may occur randomly, or it can be inherited as an autosomal dominant trait. The condition affects males and females equally, and sporadic cases usually appear at 4–18 years of age. The cysts appear similar clinically to steatocystoma multiplex, as well as acneiform eruptions and milia. Therapeutic techniques that are safe and effective are rare, with incision and drainage being the primary form of treatment when sporadic regression does not occur.
Contents
Diagnosis
Histopathology is the basis of diagnosis. Stratified-squamous epithelium with a granular layer that surrounding a cystic space filled with laminated keratin and a variable number of vellus hair cysts is seen to be present. It can be difficult to distinguish from other skin conditions, including molluscum contagiosum and acne vulgaris but can be corroborated with histopathology.
Associations
It can be associated with Steatocystoma multiplex.
Treatment
The primary indication for treatment is cosmesis. Retinoids, surgery, and lasers are used as treatment modalities.
History
It was first described in 1977.