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

• Multiple Epidermolytic Acanthoma
• Solitary Epidermolytic Acanthoma

What is Epidermolytic Acanthoma? (Definition/Background Information)

• Epidermolytic Acanthoma is a benign tumor of skin that can form on any part of the body (skin or mucosa)
• It is an uncommon skin condition that occurs on the skin as a painless, elevated papule. It occurs in a wide range of individuals including young children and elderly adults
• The cause of Epidermolytic Acanthoma is generally unknown; although the risk factors include sun damage and ultraviolet light exposure
• In a majority of cases, no treatment is necessary, unless it causes worrisome symptoms or cosmetic concerns in the individual
• A simple surgical excision of the lesion is considered curative. The prognosis for Epidermolytic Acanthoma is excellent with suitable treatment

Who gets Epidermolytic Acanthoma? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Epidermolytic Acanthoma is a skin tumor that may occur in a wide age range (3-80 years); both children and adults may be affected
• Both males and females may be present with the tumor, though a slight male predilection is seen
• Individuals of all racial and ethnic background may be affected. Worldwide, no geographical localization has been reported

What are the Risk Factors for Epidermolytic Acanthoma? (Predisposing Factors)

Currently, the following risk factors have been identified for Epidermolytic Acanthoma:

• Prolonged sun exposure, exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light
• Use of tanning beds, tanning parlors
• Injury to the skin

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 Epidermolytic Acanthoma? (Etiology)

• The cause of development of Epidermolytic Acanthoma is presently unknown. Some researchers believe that it may be due to exposure to sunlight
• Genetic mutations have been detected in some cases, which are currently being characterized

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Epidermolytic Acanthoma?

The signs and symptoms of Epidermolytic Acanthoma include:

• It may occur as a single or multiple raised papules. A papule is an area of abnormal skin tissue that is less than 1 centimeter across. Usually a papule has distinct borders, and it can appear in a variety of shapes
• It is slow-growing and may range in size from 2 mm to 2 cm
• The nodule is usually painless and non-itchy
• The papule may appear anywhere on the body. It can also occur on the oral cavity and vaginal mucosa
• The signs and symptoms may be based on the location of the lesion in the body

How is Epidermolytic Acanthoma Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Epidermolytic Acanthoma 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 Epidermolytic Acanthoma?

• Epidermolytic Acanthoma is an uncommon and benign tumor. It does not cause any significant complications
• However, some individuals may have concerns regarding their appearance, especially when the tumor is present on the face

How is Epidermolytic Acanthoma Treated?

The treatment of Epidermolytic Acanthoma may involve the following:

• In a majority of cases, removal of the tumor is not necessary, unless it causes bothersome signs and symptoms such as cosmetic issues
• The treatment of choice is a complete surgical excision, which results in a cure

How can Epidermolytic Acanthoma be Prevented?

Currently, there are no known methods to prevent Epidermolytic Acanthoma occurrence. However, some of the risk factors may be recognized and controlled. These include:

• Avoid or minimize sun exposure
• Limit the use of tanning beds, tanning parlors
• Smoking cessation

What is the Prognosis of Epidermolytic Acanthoma? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis for Epidermolytic Acanthoma is excellent with appropriate treatment, since it is a benign tumor.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Epidermolytic Acanthoma:

• There is no evidence to prove that the intake of certain foods have an influence on Epidermolytic Acanthoma development
• 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