Eccrine Carcinoma is a very rare type of skin cancer that begins in the eccrine sweat glands. These glands are responsible for producing sweat and are found throughout the entire surface of the body.
This cancer tends to occur more often in older adults and may develop slowly over time. Since it can resemble harmless skin conditions, it is often not noticed in its early stages.
Causes
The exact cause of eccrine carcinoma is still not fully understood. However, doctors believe that certain factors may increase the risk of developing this condition. One major risk is aging, as this cancer is mostly seen in people above 50 or 60 years old.
Long-term exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays may also play a role, especially for tumours that appear on sun-exposed areas like the face or arms. Another possible risk is having a weakened immune system, which may make the body less able to fight off abnormal cell growth.
Symptoms
The most common sign of eccrine carcinoma is a small, firm bump or nodule that appears on the skin. This lump is usually painless in the beginning but may grow slowly over time.
It can appear on the head, arms, legs, or trunk. As it grows, it may become itchy or irritated, and its color might change, sometimes looking brown, red, or even bluish. Since it doesn’t always hurt, many people ignore it until it becomes noticeable or starts changing.
Diagnosis
To confirm the diagnosis, a doctor will usually perform a skin biopsy, where a small piece of the bump is removed and examined under a microscope in a lab. This helps determine if it is cancerous. If there is concern that the cancer may have spread to other areas, the doctor may order imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs to get a clearer picture.
Treatment
The primary treatment for eccrine carcinoma is surgical removal of the tumour. In many cases, Mohs surgery is used, which involves removing the tumour layer by layer while checking each layer under a microscope.
This method helps to make sure no cancer cells are left behind. If the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, doctors may recommend radiation therapy or chemotherapy as additional treatment options.
Prognosis
When eccrine carcinoma is caught early and removed completely, the chances of full recovery are high. However, there is a chance that the cancer can come back (recur) in the same area or spread elsewhere. This is why people who have had this cancer need to have regular follow-ups and skin checks with their doctor to catch any signs of recurrence early and ensure proper care.
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