ative measures, such as punctate and linear scarification,
electrolysis and excision, are occasionally practised, but the results
are rarely satisfactory and permanent; not infrequently, indeed, renewed
activity in the progress of the growth is noted to follow. The _x_-ray
can be tried with some hope of improvement. The administration of
thyroid has been thought to have a possible influence in some instances.

#Fibroma.#
(_Synonyms:_ Molluscum Fibrosum; Fibroma Molluscum.)

#What do you understand by fibroma?#

Fibroma is a connective-tissue new growth characterized by one or more
sessile or pedunculated, pea- to egg-sized or larger, soft or firm,
rounded, painless tumors, seated beneath and in the skin.

#Describe the clinical appearances of fibroma.#

The growth may be single, in which case it is apt to be pedunculated or
pendulous, and attain considerable dimensions; as a result of weight or
pressure surface-ulceration may occur. Or, as commonly met with, the
lesions are numerous, scattered over large surface, and vary in size
from a pea to a cherry; the overlying skin being normal, pinkish or
reddish, loose, stretched, hypertrophied or atrophied.

The tumors are painless. The general health is not involved.

[Illustration: Fig. 41. Fibroma. (_After Octerlony._)]

#What is the course of fibroma?#

Chronic and persistent.

#What is the etiology of fibroma?#

The cause is not known. Heredity is often noted. The affection is not
common.

#State the pathology of fibroma.#

The growths are variously thought to have their origin in the connective
tissue of the corium, or in that of the walls of the hair-sac, or in the
connective-tissue framework of the fatty tissue. Recent tumors are
composed of gelatinous, newly-formed connective tissue, and the older
growths of a dense, firmly-packed, fibrous tissue.

#From what growths is fibroma to be differentiated?#

From molluscum contagiosum, neuroma and lipoma; the first is
differentiated by its central aperture or depression, neuroma by its
painfulness, and lipoma by its lobulated character and soft feel.

#Give the prognosis of fibroma.#

The disease is persistent, and irresponsive to all treatment save
operative measures.

#What is the treatment of fibroma?#

Treatment consists, when desired and practicable, in the removal of the
growths by the knife, or in large and pedunculated tumors by the
li