About Atypical Fibroxanthoma Treatment Services
A new bump that grows quickly, bleeds easily, or won’t heal deserves prompt attention, especially on skin that has seen decades of sun.
At Charleston Dermatology, our physicians and providers evaluate suspicious growths with a careful exam and biopsy. Because AFX can look like other skin cancers, an accurate diagnosis under the microscope is the foundation of the right treatment.
Treatment plans are built around your diagnosis, and surgical removal is the standard approach, often with Mohs micrographic surgery or excision to make sure the tumor is fully removed while preserving healthy tissue. When caught and treated early, the outlook for AFX is very good. Schedule a visit and let our team take a closer look.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is atypical fibroxanthoma?
Atypical fibroxanthoma is a rare skin cancer that arises in the deeper layers of sun-damaged skin. It usually appears as a firm, dome-shaped, pink or red bump that grows over weeks to months, most commonly on the scalp, ears, or face of adults over 60.
What causes atypical fibroxanthoma?
Long-term sun damage is the primary driver. AFX develops most often in fair-skinned older adults with a history of significant sun exposure. A weakened immune system and prior radiation treatment can also increase risk.
How is atypical fibroxanthoma treated?
Surgery is the main treatment. Mohs micrographic surgery is often preferred because it removes the tumor layer by layer while checking the margins under the microscope, which offers high cure rates and spares healthy tissue. AFX rarely spreads, but follow-up skin checks are recommended to monitor for recurrence and new skin cancers.