Sebaceous Carcinoma in the Right Inguinal Region with Multiple Metastases and a Poor Prognosis: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Sebaceous carcinoma (SC) is a rare malignancy and can be divided into two types, ocular and extra-ocular SC. Extra-ocular SC is typically associated with a better prognosis than ocular SC. However, extra-ocular SCs located in atypical areas, such as the inguinal region, along with multiple metastases, are uncommon and present significant challenges, often leading to poorer outcomes.

Case description: We present the case of a 68-year-old male patient who initially presented with a mass in the right inguinal region with multiple metastasis. A PET-CT scan revealed multiple enlarged lymph nodes and soft tissue masses in the abdominal and pelvic cavities. A biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of extra-ocular SC. Unfortunately, the disease progressed rapidly, and the patient succumbed to his illness just four months after diagnosis.

Conclusion: This case highlights the aggressive nature of extra-ocular SC in unusual locations, underscoring the necessity for heightened awareness and further research on this rare condition. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of extra-ocular SC and emphasize the urgent need for more investigation into optimal management strategies.

Keywords: Sebaceous carcinoma; dermatology; extra-ocular; metastasis; skin cancer.

Figure 1

Histochemical findings of the resected specimen. (A) Hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining. Scale bar: 50µm. (B) Prostate-specific antigen (PSA). (C) B-cell lymphoma-2 (BCL-2). (D) Cytokeratin 20 (CK20). (E) P53. (F) P63. (G) Cytokeratin 5/6 (CK5/6). (H) Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA). (I) Cytokeratin 7 (CK7). (J) Epithelial membrane antigen (EMA).

Figure 2

Whole body fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) images. The PET-CT reveals masses in the right inguinal region (yellow arrow) with metastasis in the right thigh (yellow arrow), left inguinal region (blue arrow), and extensive abdominal lymph nodes (red arrow). (A) Cross-sectional CT view; (B) Median sagittal section; (C) Frontal plane.