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White lesion on cheek
Last reviewed: November 2022
Author: Dr Ian Coulson, Consultant Dermatologist and Editor-in-Chief, 2022.
Edited by the DermNet content department
Background
This boy has a 3 month history of a white lesion on his cheek. There is no history of trauma.
What is it?
This is a cutaneous calculus, or subepidermal calcified nodule, a lesion caused by the accumulation of calcium in the upper dermis. They have a cream white colour, are usually solitary, often appear filiform, and most commonly occur in children on the head and neck, especially the ear.
What is it likely associated with?
It is thought that they usually arise in a pre-existing skin lesion, possibly a viral wart. They are usually not associated with disorders of calcium metabolism.
How should it be managed?
They respond well to curettage or shave excision, and usually do not recur.