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

• Cutaneous Poroma
• Dermal Duct Tumor
• Hidroacanthoma Simplex

What is Poroma of Skin? (Definition/Background Information)

• Poroma of Skin is a common, benign tumor of the sweat glands. It can arise either from the apocrine or eccrine sweat gland
• There are three different types of sweat glands in the skin. These include the following:
  • Apocrine sweat glands
  • Eccrine sweat glands
  • Apoeccrine sweat glands
• Poroma of Skin is a slow-growing and usually solitary tumor that occurs as a painless papule, nodule, or plaque. In rare cases, they may be many in numbers
• It is often seen in young to older adults, and is typically present in hands and feet. The cause of Poroma of Skin is largely unknown, but it could be due to genetic mutations
• The risk factors for Poroma of Skin generally include nevus sebaceous, pregnancy, and radiation therapy (in rare cases)
• 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 Poroma of Skin is excellent with suitable treatment

Who gets Poroma of Skin? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Poroma of Skin is a common condition that is present during adulthood. It is usually observed in the age range of 30-60 years
• Both males and females may be affected with equal frequency
• Individuals of all racial and ethnic background may be affected. Worldwide, no geographical localization of Poroma of Skin has been reported

What are the Risk Factors for Poroma of Skin? (Predisposing Factors)

Currently, the following risk factors have been identified for Poroma of Skin:

• Nevus sebaceous
• In rare cases, radiation therapy administered for other health reasons
• Pregnancy: No new lesions are known to develop during pregnancy, but the existing lesions may rapidly grow and become large

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one's 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 Poroma of Skin? (Etiology)

The cause of development of Poroma of Skin is presently unknown.

• It may be due to genetic mutations
• Research is currently being undertaken to identify the relevant causal factors

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Poroma of Skin?

The signs and symptoms of Poroma of Skin include:

• The lesion usually occurs as a single papule, nodule, or plaque on the skin
• Rarely, multiple tumors are known to occur throughout the body. In such case, the condition is termed as poromatous
• It is a slow-growing tumor, usually less than 1 cm in size
• The tumor is usually painless and non-itchy
• Some tumors can be pigmented
• Poroma of Skin lesions are commonly observed on the hands and feet (particularly on the soles and palms) 

How is Poroma of Skin Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Poroma of Skin 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 Poroma of Skin?

Poroma of Skin is a common 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 at the site (superimposed infections)
• Some individuals may have concerns based on their cosmetic appearance

How is Poroma of Skin Treated?

The treatment of Poroma of Skin 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
• Poromas on the feet are commonly irritated and tender from shoe contact
• 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 Poroma of Skin be Prevented?

Currently, there are no known methods to prevent Poroma of Skin occurrence.

What is the Prognosis of Poroma of Skin? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis for Poroma of Skin is excellent with appropriate treatment, since it is a benign tumor.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Poroma of Skin:

• There is no evidence to prove that oily foods and chocolate-based products have an influence on Poroma of Skin 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