What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Eccrine Spiroma

What is Eccrine Spiradenoma? (Definition/Background Information)

• Spiradenoma is a benign tumor that can arise either from the apocrine or eccrine sweat gland. Eccrine Spiradenoma originates from the eccrine sweat glands
• There are two different types of sweat glands in the skin. These include the following:
  • Apocrine sweat glands
  • Eccrine sweat glands

Eccrine Spiradenoma is a slow-growing and usually solitary tumor that occurs as a painful nodule. It is often seen in young to older adults and can be present anywhere in the body

• The cause and risk factors for Eccrine Spiradenoma are not yet well-established 
• In a majority of cases, the condition is treated due to the pain it causes. A simple surgical excision of the tumor is considered curative
• The prognosis for Eccrine Spiradenoma is excellent with suitable treatment. However, in rare cases, some spiradenomas are known to transform into malignant lesions

Who gets Eccrine Spiradenoma? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Eccrine Spiradenoma is commonly seen in the age range of 20-60 years
• They may be rarely seen in children too
• Both males and females may be affected
• Individuals of all racial and ethnic background may be affected

What are the Risk Factors for Eccrine Spiradenoma? (Predisposing Factors)

• Currently, no risk factors have been identified for Eccrine Spiradenoma

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Eccrine Spiradenoma? (Etiology)

• The cause of development of Eccrine Spiradenoma is presently unknown
• Research is currently being undertaken to identify the relevant causal factors

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Eccrine Spiradenoma?

The signs and symptoms of Eccrine Spiradenoma include:

• It usually occurs as nodules on the skin, usually solitary (sometimes many in numbers)
• It is a slow-growing tumor; it is usually less than 1 cm in size, though some may reach up to 5 cm
• The tumor is quite painful and pain is the foremost reason why most individuals seek healthcare
• Some tumors can be pigmented
• Eccrine Spiradenoma can occur on any part of the body. However, they are commonly observed on the head and neck area (particularly on the face)

Note: Painful tumors occurring under the skin are grouped under the acronym “ANGEL”, which is: Angiolipoma, Neuroma, Glomus tumor, Eccrine spiradenoma, and Leiomyoma.

How is Eccrine Spiradenoma Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Eccrine Spiradenoma may involve the following:

• A thorough medical history and physical examination
• Dermoscopy: It is a diagnostic tool where a dermatologist examines the skin using a special magnified lens
• Wood’s lamp examination: In this procedure, the healthcare provider examines the skin using ultraviolet light. It is performed to examine the change in skin pigmentation
• Skin biopsy: A skin biopsy is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. The pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Eccrine Spiradenoma?

Eccrine Spiradenoma is a benign skin lesion and it may cause the following complications:

• The tumors can ulcerate and bleed. This can cause secondary bacterial or fungal infections to develop (superimposed infections)
• Some individuals may have concerns regarding their cosmetic appearance
• In rare cases, some nodules are known to transform into cancerous tumors

How is Eccrine Spiradenoma Treated?

The treatment of Eccrine Spiradenoma may involve the following:

• The treatment is a complete surgical excision, which can result in a cure. Due to the severe pain it causes, in most cases, the tumors may be surgically removed
• Follow-up care with regular screening and check-ups are important and encouraged

How can Eccrine Spiradenoma be Prevented?

Currently, there are no known methods to prevent Eccrine Spiradenoma occurrence.

What is the Prognosis of Eccrine Spiradenoma? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis for Eccrine Spiradenoma is excellent with appropriate treatment, since it is a benign tumor
• If any malignant transformation is noticed, the tumor is removed early to prevent adverse health outcomes. The prognosis is excellent with prompt diagnosis and treatment of malignant tumors

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Eccrine Spiradenoma:

• There is no evidence to prove that oily foods and chocolate-based products have an influence on its formation
• Cleaning the skin too hard with strong chemicals or soaps may aggravate the skin condition. Care must be taken avoid strong soaps and chemicals that could potentially worsen the condition
• The presence of dirt on the body is not a causative factor for the condition. However, it helps to be clean and hygienic, which may help the condition from getting worse