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

• Large-Cell Acanthoma of Skin
• LCA (Large Cell Acanthoma)

What is Large Cell Acanthoma? (Definition/Background information)

• Large Cell Acanthoma (LCA) is a rare benign tumor of the sebaceous gland on skin. It can resemble seborrheic keratosis (another common sebaceous gland benign tumor)
• They are associated with itching and may ulcerate and bleed due to intense scratching. Large Cell Acanthoma is generally observed in middle-aged and older adults, especially in those who have a lighter-skin
• The cause of development of the condition is unknown, though the risk factors for Large Cell Acanthoma include exposure to sun and ultraviolet (UV) light
• Large Cell Acanthomas are often present on the face, trunk, and extremities (on sun-exposed areas). Since, these pigmented tumors resemble melanoma of skin, they are frequently biopsied to ensure a definitive diagnosis
• A treatment of Large Cell Acanthoma may be undertaken, if they present cosmetic concerns to the individual. In such cases, a simple surgical excision is sufficient treatment. The prognosis is excellent on removal of the tumor

Who gets Large Cell Acanthoma? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Large Cell Acanthoma is commonly seen in middle-aged and elderly adults
• It is observed in both men and women
• This condition is observed worldwide across all racial and ethnic groups; however, lighter-skinned individuals (especially Caucasians) are more prone to Large Cell Acanthomas than darker-skinned individuals (such as Asians, Africans, etc.)

What are the Risk Factors for Large Cell Acanthoma? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors for Large Cell Acanthoma include:

• Exposure to sunlight and UV light
• Skin tanning (use of tanning beds)
• Caucasians are more vulnerable compared to other darker-toned individuals

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 Large Cell Acanthoma? (Etiology)

• The exact cause and development of Large Cell Acanthoma is unknown, but it seems to be influenced by exposure to sunlight
• An association with human papilloma virus (HPV type 6) is observed

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Large Cell Acanthoma?

In most cases, Large Cell Acanthoma does not present any signs and symptoms. However, the following may be noted:

• They occur as single or multiple tiny skin lesions that are observed on the face, chest, back, arms, and legs (areas exposed to the sun)
• It is a slow-growing tumor and are often less than 1 cm in size
• These lesions can be light to darkly pigmented, and may be mistaken for melanoma of skin (a malignant tumor of the skin)
• LCA is associated with itching, which can lead to constant scratching. This can result in inflammation and bleeding

How is Large Cell Acanthoma Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Large Cell Acanthoma may involve the following procedures and tests:

• Complete physical examination with evaluation of medical history
• 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

Note: The diagnosis of Large Cell Acanthoma need not involve a biopsy. However, since there is a suspicion of melanoma, the healthcare provider may recommend a biopsy.

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 Large Cell Acanthoma?

No significant complications generally arise from Large Cell Acanthoma; however:

• They may present cosmetic concerns, in which case a surgery may be proposed
• If they are traumatized, severe pain and bleeding with ulceration may occur
• Bleeding and ulceration can cause infection due to bacteria or fungi

How is Large Cell Acanthoma Treated?

Large Cell Acanthoma may not require any treatment in a majority of cases. However, in case they present cosmetic issues in the individual, they may be removed.

• The healthcare provider may chose to regularly monitor the tumor, if they are asymptomatic. A ‘wait and watch’ approach may be adopted
• A complete surgical excision can result in a cure
• Follow-up care with regular screening and check-ups are important

How can Large Cell Acanthoma be Prevented?

• Current medical research has not established a definitive way to prevent the formation of Large Cell Acanthoma
• However, overexposure to sun’s rays and UV light should be avoided

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

• The prognosis of Large Cell Acanthoma is excellent on its complete excision and removal
• Since, these are benign tumors, the prognosis is excellent, even if no treatment is provided and only periodic observation is maintained

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Large Cell Acanthoma:

• Large Cell Acanthoma is not an infectious condition; they do not spread from one individual to another
• There is no definitive proof that consuming certain foods influence its development