apocrine gland carcinoma

Last reviewed 01/2018

Apocrine gland carcinoma is a very rare form of malignant sweat gland carcinoma. It may occur at any site with apocrine glands, but predominantly the axilla.

Clinically, they present as firm or hard dermal nodules. Microscopic appearances are those of disordered glandular proliferation. Cells show multiple eosinophilic granules. Histologically, the differential diagnosis is that of metastatic adenocarcinoma.

Treatment is by wide local excision. The patient is carefully observed for recurrence.