adenoid cystic carcinoma (scalp)

Last reviewed 01/2018

Adenoid cystic carcinoma is a rare malignant tumour of eccrine glands. A similar histological form is seen more commonly in the salivary glands of the oral cavity.

Clinically, it presents with slow-growing, nodular lesions on the scalp. Pain may be suprisingly severe for the size of the lesion.

Histologically, there is aggressive invasion into nerve and bone. There is a cribriform arrangement of cells.

Treatment is by excision as it is not radiosensitive. Due to its extensive invasion, it is worth considering intraoperative frozen section to ensure adequate margins.