Giant benign skin tumors: a retrospective analysis and compilation of noteworthy characteristics

Abstract

Background/aim: benign skin tumors are soft-tissue lesions that present with poor cosmesis along with pain, functional limitations, deformity, and hypoesthesia. Rapid progression and giant forms should be evaluated and differentiated from malignant transformation. The aim of this study is to evaluate the patients operated for giant benign skin tumors and to assess clinical experience about indications, size, location, and histopathological results and follow-up period. Materials and methods: the present study included 16 consecutive patients who underwent surgery for giant benign skin tumors between 2015 and 2018 based on the literature definition of "giant benign skin tumors." Demographic parameters, indications, symptoms, pathological results, and postoperative complications were evaluated retrospectively. Results: sixteen patients (11 males and 5 females) were operated for giant benign skin tumors. The mean age of the patients was 53.38 (range: 37-72) years. Tumor locations were on the scalp for four patients, the upper extremity for three patients, lower extremity for three patients, trunk for five patients, and generalized for one patient. Pain was the most common symptom, and hypoesthesia, functional limitations, ulceration, and infection were also observed. Total excision was performed for all patients. No major complications and recurrence were observed. Conclusion: clinical follow-up is an option for patients presenting to clinic with lesions that are small in size and asymptomatic. However, a detailed history and examination along with total excision and histopathological examination should be planned in patients with rapid progression or with benign skin tumors of giant size.