fibroepithelioma

I went to my doctor today about a spot on my arm I wanted to have removed because I didnt know what it was. When he seen it he said it was a fibroepithelioma and that he didnt want to remove it and that it was nothing to worry about. But when I went home I looked it up on the internet and it says fibroepithelioma is a cancer. Am I reading it correct and if so why would my doctor tell me it was nothing to worry about?

[i_am_who_i_am]

just want to move this up to the top in hopes of having it read and getting a response

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Fibroepithelioma is a skin tumor composed of fibrous tissue intersected by thin bands of basal cells of the epidermis. Not much has been known about this tumor but it is thought to be a type of basal cell carcinoma. I suggest you to get a second opinion regarding the diagnosis from a dermatologist.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[i_am_who_i_am]

I have been to my doctor about this 3 times and he says he is positive it is a fibroepithelioma. I wanted to have it removed but he strongly advised against it because he was sure of what it was. I was confident in what he said but now after what you say I am concerned. Are fibroepitheliomas cancerous? Is it that they just hard to distinguish between them and basal cell carsinoma or are they a carsinoma?

[i_am_who_i_am]

also how dangerous is a fibroepithelioma if it is cancerous?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Fibroepithelioma resembles basal cell carcinoma which is a malignancy and hence treatment is primarily surgical. Recommended treatment options include complete surgical excision or electrodesiccation followed by curettage. Cryosurgery, Mohs micrographic surgery, or radiation therapy may also be used. You can discuss these treatment options with your dermatologist.
I hope it helps. Take care and regards.

[i_am_who_i_am]

So the actual fibroepithelioma is not cancerous? It just so closely resembles basal cell carsinoma is that it?