Dermatofibroma vs Common Nevus

How to tell the difference — key features compared side by side.

Feature
Dermatofibroma
Common Nevus
Category
Benign
Benign
Key feature
Firm, small brown bump - usually on the legs. Harmless. The dimple sign is its signature feature.
Normal moles - clusters of pigment cells. Usually harmless, but monthly monitoring for changes is essential.
Risk factors
Female sex (more common in women); Young to middle-aged adults; Prior minor skin trauma (insect bites, shaving nicks)
Genetic predisposition (number of moles is largely hereditary); Sun exposure during childhood and adolescence; Fair skin
Action needed
A nodule larger than 1-2cm or growing progressively (may be DFSP)
Any mole that changes in size, shape, or color

Dermatofibroma

Dermatofibroma is a common, harmless, firm nodule that typically appears on the lower legs of women, though it can occur anywhere. It presents as a small (usually under 1cm), firm, slightly raised, brownish bump that feels like a hard lump under the skin.

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Common Nevus

A common nevus is a normal mole - a well-defined growth formed by a cluster of melanocytes (pigment-producing cells). Most adults develop between 10 and 40 common moles by their 30s, and the number gradually decreases with age as some moles naturally fade.

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Does yours look more like dermatofibroma?

Quick self-check

Does this look like dermatofibroma? Answer 2 questions.

Does the center dimple inward when you pinch the sides?

Is it a small (under 1cm), firm, brownish bump - most likely on the leg?

Still not sure?

Our full ABCDE checker evaluates 5 clinical criteria dermatologists use.

Full ABCDE check →