Abstract

Introduction: Syringocystadenoma papilliferum (SCAP) is a relatively rare benign tumor, which can manifest in a variety of clinical forms. Nearly one-third of cases are known to arise within a pre-existing nevus sebaceus but the exact incidence and probability of malignancy is unknown.

Case summary: This report describes a 27-year-old Filipino female who presented with a 7-year history of a persistently enlarging exophytic pedunculated cribriform tumor on a congenital verrucous plaque on the left temporal area. The rapid increase in size of the tumor, malodorous exudates and bleeding on light manipulation raised suspicion of malignant transformation. The tumor was initially clinically diagnosed as a case of epidermal nevus with squamous cell carcinoma but histopathologic examination exhibited features of syringocystadenoma papilliferum on a nevus sebaceous. She underwent shave biopsy of the exophytic tumor and carbon dioxide (CO2) laser excision of the sebaceous nevus under local anesthesia. The procedure was uneventful and the patient is on regular follow-up and close monitoring for any possible malignant change or recurrence.

Conclusion: A case of syringocystadenoma papilliferum on a nevus sebaceus mimicking squamous cell carcinoma in a Filipino female treated with carbon dioxide laser was presented. Atypical presentation can mimic malignancy and histopathologic evaluation is warranted to rule out malignant transformation and prevent unnecessary treatment. Carbon dioxide laser ablation can be a treatment alternative alongside with close observation and further follow-up.

Citation

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Keywords

Syringocystadenoma papilliferum, secondary tumors, nevus sebaceus, case report