apocrine adenoma

Apocrine Adenoma: A Rare Benign Tumor

An apocrine adenoma is a rare benign tumor that originates from the apocrine glands, which are a type of sweat gland found in the skin. This tumor is characterized by a well-circumscribed mass comprising tubular structures lined with two rows of epithelial cells, showing apocrine differentiation.

Key Features:

• Histological Characteristics: The tumor is composed of variably-sized tubules, some of which are cystically dilated, set in a background of hyalinized stroma.
• Apocrine Differentiation: The cells forming the tubular structures show apocrine differentiation with decapitation secretion.
• Circumscribed Mass: The tumor presents as a well-defined, intradermal nodule that may involve the subcutaneous adipose tissue.

Locations:

• Scalp: Apocrine adenoma is most commonly found on the scalp but can also occur at other sites such as face, axilla, leg, and genitalia.
• Female Predominance: The tumor shows a female predominance with a 2:1 ratio.

Differential Diagnosis:

• Apocrine Metaplasia: Apocrine adenoma should be differentiated from apocrine metaplasia, which is a common change in the female breast but presents as a well-circumscribed tumor.
• Eccrine and Apocrine Glands: Sweat gland lesions generally have variable apocrine or eccrine differentiation.

References:

• [1] Tubular apocrine adenoma (TAA) is a rare benign tumor that can be found in various locations, including the scalp. [Source: 12]
• [2] The histological characteristics of TAA include variably-sized tubules with cystic dilation and hyalinized stroma. [Source: 12]
• [3] Apocrine adenoma shows apocrine differentiation with decapitation secretion. [Source: 13]

Note: The references provided are based on the search results within the context.

Apocrine adenomas are rare skin tumors that can appear in various parts of the body, including the scalp, face, axilla, and genitalia [6]. The signs and symptoms of apocrine adenoma may vary depending on the location and size of the tumor.

Common Symptoms:

• A solitary, asymptomatic nodule or mass that measures 2-3 cm in diameter [1]
• Rarely, the tumor can grow rapidly or slowly, but it is usually not painful
• In some cases, the tumor may cause discomfort or pain if it grows large enough to press on surrounding tissues

Clinical Signs:

• Perianal discomfort or swelling (if located near the anus)
• Hypercalcemia (high calcium levels in the blood) and polyuria (frequent urination)
• Polydipsia (increased thirst)
• Straining to defecate or urinate
• Pain on defecation
• Blood in the stool
• Changes in stool size

Other Signs:

• Lethargy
• Straining to defecate
• Constipation
• Decreased appetite
• Vomiting
• Increased thirst and urination
• Weakness or swelling in the affected area

It's essential to note that not all apocrine adenomas will exhibit symptoms, and some may be asymptomatic [4]. If you suspect you have an apocrine adenoma, it is crucial to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

References: [1] - Context result 1 [6] - Context result 6 [4] - Context result 7

Apocrine adenomas can be challenging to diagnose, but various diagnostic tests can help confirm their presence. Here are some of the key diagnostic tests used for apocrine adenoma:

• Histopathological analysis: This is considered the gold standard for diagnosing apocrine adenoma. A biopsy sample is examined under a microscope to look for characteristic features such as metaplastic apocrine cells, calcifications, and a circumscribed proliferation of epithelial cells [2][4].
• Immunohistochemistry: This test can help confirm the diagnosis by identifying specific markers expressed by apocrine adenoma cells. For example, PLAG1 and HMGA2 gene rearrangements can be detected using fluorescence in situ hybridization

The differential diagnosis for apocrine adenoma, a rare benign tumor of the breast, includes several conditions that can be considered in the diagnostic process.

• Apocrine cystadenoma: This is a condition where the tumor has more dilated and cystic spaces rather than tubules, making it distinct from apocrine adenoma [2].
• Benign papillary apocrine hyperplasia: This is a condition where there is an overgrowth of apocrine cells within a large cyst with diminished or absent myoepithelium, which can be confused with apocrine adenoma [3].
• Apocrine carcinoma: This is a malignant form of apocrine tumor that needs to be differentiated from metastatic adenocarcinoma, especially of breast origin [6].
• Sclerosing adenosis involving apocrine DCIS: This is a condition where there is an involvement of sclerosing adenosis with apocrine ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), which can be confused with apocrine adenoma [5].

It's worth noting that the differential diagnosis for apocrine adenoma also includes other conditions such as hidradenoma, spiradenocylindroma, and tubular apocrine adenoma, among others [15]. A thorough examination and diagnostic workup are necessary to accurately diagnose apocrine adenoma and rule out these potential differential diagnoses.

References: [2] - Context result 2 [3] - Context result 3 [5] - Context result 5 [6] - Context result 6 [15] - Context result 15