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Review
. 2022 Jun;47(6):1030-1035.
doi: 10.1111/ced.15126. Epub 2022 Mar 20.

Porocarcinoma: a review

Jilse Joshy  1 , Khaylen Mistry  1   2 , Nick J Levell  1   2 , Birgitta van Bodegraven  3   4 , Sally Vernon  4 , Neil Rajan  5 , Paul Craig  6 , Zoe Claire Venables  1   2   4
Affiliations
Review

Porocarcinoma: a review

Jilse Joshy et al. Clin Exp Dermatol. 2022 Jun.

Abstract

From the first report in 1969 to the present day, diagnosis of eccrine porocarcinoma, also known simply as porocarcinoma (PC), remains a challenge. This review presents a concise update of the history, pathogenesis, epidemiology, diagnosis, management and prognosis of this rare sweat gland neoplasm. PC differentiates towards the intraepidermal spiral ducts in the eccrine gland, is more common in people aged > 60 years and often affects the head, neck and legs. PC presents as a dome-shaped papule, plaque or nodule growing over weeks to months. The exact incidence of PC is unknown but appears to be rising. Diagnosis is difficult because of variable presentations and similar clinical and histological features to cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Management involves removal of the tumour, usually using wide local excision or Mohs micrographic surgery. Prognosis is poor, with PC recurring after surgery in 35% of cases. Given the lack of standardized protocols and risk profiles, further studies would help improve the understanding of PC.

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References

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