Congenital Ectopic Cartilaginous Nodule on the Left Cheek: A Rare Diagnostic Challenge.

BACKGROUND &

OBJECTIVE

Congenital cutaneous lesions containing mature cartilage are exceedingly rare and often of uncertain histogenesis.

CASE REPORT: A 17-year-old male with a lifelong left cheek nodule underwent complete excision and histopathologic examination. Microscopy revealed a deep dermal island of mature hyaline cartilage without atypia, associated epithelial components, or adnexal hyperplasia.

CONCLUSION

The findings represent ectopic cartilage of unclear etiology. Connective tissue nevus with cartilaginous differentiation and chondroma cutis are favored considerations. Complete excision was curative, with an excellent cosmetic outcome at 5-month follow-up.