Primary cutaneous adenoid cystic carcinoma

J Am Acad Dermatol. 2008 Apr;58(4):636-41. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2007.12.005.

Abstract

Primary cutaneous adenoid cystic carcinoma is a rare, slow-growing malignancy first described by Boggio in 1975. This tumor characteristically consists of basophilic cells with a distinct adenoid or cribriform pattern in the mid to deep reticular dermis. Modified myoepithelial cells with prominent basement membrane material often surround true lumina. Definitive diagnosis relies on the characteristic histologic features and the exclusion of metastatic disease. We describe two patients who presented with painful papules of the scalp and were successfully treated with wide local excision.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Carcinoma, Adenoid Cystic / surgery
  • Carcinoma, Adenoid Cystic / ultrastructure*
  • Female
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / surgery
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / ultrastructure*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Scalp*
  • Skin Neoplasms / surgery
  • Skin Neoplasms / ultrastructure*