Lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma of the skin treated by Mohs micrographic surgery

Abstract

Background: Lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma of the skin (LELCS) is a rare malignant tumor thought to be of adnexal origin. Because of its rarity, treatment parameters have not been defined.

Objective: To examine the role and success of Mohs micrographic surgery in the treatment of LELCS versus other forms of treatment previously documented in the literature.

Methods/results: A review of the previous reported cases and their treatment outcomes was compared with the present case. Three of the 12 previously reported cases were incompletely treated with initial surgical management, with one patient subsequently dying of metastatic tumor. The present case was treated with Mohs micrographic surgery for recurrent LELCS, following initial treatment with electrodessication and curettage, and is without evidence of disease 20 months postoperatively.

Conclusion: LELCS may be successfully treated by Mohs micrographic surgery.