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

• Papillary Hidradenoma

What is Hidradenoma Papilliferum? (Definition/Background Information)

• Hidradenoma Papilliferum is a rare benign tumor of the sweat glands. It usually arises from the apocrine sweat gland
• There are three different types of sweat glands in the skin. These include the following:
  • Apocrine sweat glands
  • Eccrine sweat glands
  • Sebaceous sweat glands
• Hidradenoma Papilliferum is a slow-growing and usually solitary tumor that occurs as a painless nodule. It is often seen in middle-aged women and is typically present around the anus or on the genitals (anogenital region)
• The cause of Hidradenoma Papilliferum is largely unknown, though Caucasians have a higher risk for the condition
• In a majority of cases, no treatment in necessary, unless it causes worrisome symptoms or presents cosmetic concerns in the individual
• A simple surgical excision of the tumor is considered curative. The prognosis for Hidradenoma Papilliferum is excellent with suitable treatment

Who gets Hidradenoma Papilliferum? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Hidradenoma Papilliferum is an uncommon condition that is generally present in young or middle-age women in the age range of 20-50 years
• Males are also rarely affected; the frequency of incidence is much less
• Individuals of all racial and ethnic background may be affected, though the tumor is only infrequently seen in African Americans. It is more common in Caucasians

What are the Risk Factors for Hidradenoma Papilliferum? (Predisposing Factors)

Currently, the following risk factor has been identified for Hidradenoma Papilliferum:

• Middle-aged women
• Caucasians

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 Hidradenoma Papilliferum? (Etiology)

• The cause of development of Hidradenoma Papilliferum is unknown
• Research is currently being undertaken to identify the relevant causal factors

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Hidradenoma Papilliferum?

The signs and symptoms of Hidradenoma Papilliferum include:

• It usually occurs as nodules on the skin, usually single
• It is a slow-growing tumor and is usually painless and non-itchy
• Some tumors can be pigmented
• They are commonly observed on the perianal areas and genitalia (vulva). Some are known to occur on the other parts of the body too, such as on the face (eyelid)

How is Hidradenoma Papilliferum Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Hidradenoma Papilliferum 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 Hidradenoma Papilliferum?

Hidradenoma Papilliferum 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 tumors may transform into malignant forms

How is Hidradenoma Papilliferum Treated?

The treatment of Hidradenoma Papilliferum 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 is a complete surgical excision, which results in a cure
• Follow-up care with regular screening and check-ups are important and encouraged

How can Hidradenoma Papilliferum be Prevented?

Currently, there are no known methods to prevent Hidradenoma Papilliferum occurrence.

What is the Prognosis of Hidradenoma Papilliferum? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis for Hidradenoma Papilliferum is excellent with appropriate treatment, since it is a benign tumor.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Hidradenoma Papilliferum:

• There is no evidence to prove that oily foods and chocolate-based products have an influence on Hidradenoma Papilliferum 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