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

• Meibomian Gland Carcinoma
• Sebaceous Carcinoma
• Sebaceous Gland Carcinoma

What is Sebaceous Carcinoma of Skin? (Definition/Background Information)

• Sebaceous Carcinoma of Skin is a very rare, malignant tumor of the skin, arising from the sebaceous gland. They are thought to occur due to sun damage
• Common locations, where the tumor is observed is the head and neck region, apart from the trunk, arms, and legs
• However, the tumors are most frequently seen on the eyelids and hence, the term Meibomian Gland Carcinoma is used to indicate the condition
• For some unknown reasons, individuals of Asian origin seem to be affected by Sebaceous Carcinomas more than individuals of any other race or ethnic group
• The treatment of choice for this malignant skin tumor is surgical intervention; however, there is a chance of recurrence. The prognosis is poor for metastatic Sebaceous Gland Carcinomas

Who gets Sebaceous Carcinoma of Skin? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Sebaceous Carcinoma of Skin is usually seen in adults, in their 60s. However, the condition may affect individuals of any age
• It is predominantly found in females; the female-to-male ratio is 2:1
• Sebaceous Gland Carcinoma is more common in certain Asian countries, such as in India

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

The risk factors of Sebaceous Carcinoma of Skin include:

• Any occupation that increases sun exposure, such as farming or construction, is a risk factor
• Radiation therapy to a region increases the chances of Sebaceous Carcinoma in the region of the radiation (in the future)
• Individuals with a weak immune system, due to various health conditions
• Individuals with Muir-Torre syndrome, which is a genetic condition

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 Sebaceous Carcinoma of Skin? (Etiology)

• A majority of cases of Sebaceous Carcinoma of Skin occur in a sporadic manner, without any genetic defect or abnormality
• Though, some cases occur due to genetic defects, caused by mutations in the DNA mismatched repair gene

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Sebaceous Carcinoma of Skin?

Signs and symptoms of Sebaceous Carcinoma of Skin include:

• They can occur as a single tumor or multiple tumors, at various parts of the skin
• Sebaceous Carcinomas usually occur as a painless mass that may ulcerate, as they become larger
• These tumors are generally slow-growing tumors; but, sometimes they may grow rapidly
• The tumors may not be just confined to the skin; occasionally, these can occur in the breasts, lungs, and in the salivary glands
• Meibomian Gland Carcinomas occur on the eyelids and this may cause eye irritation, blurred vision, and discomfort

How is Sebaceous Carcinoma of Skin Diagnosed?

Sebaceous Carcinoma of Skin may be diagnosed using the following tools:

• Physical exam and evaluation of medical history
• Skin biopsy and the biopsy of any metastatic mass - the specimen is examined under a microscope by a pathologist, to arrive 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 Sebaceous Carcinoma of Skin?

The most frequent and main complications with Sebaceous Carcinoma of Skin include:

• Recurrence, if incompletely removed
• Cosmetic problems, due to tumor on the eyelids
• Damage of vital nerves, blood vessels, and surrounding structures, during surgery
• Metastasis to various organs, which may even result in death

How is Sebaceous Carcinoma of Skin Treated?

The treatment of Sebaceous Carcinoma of Skin may include the following:

• A complete surgical excision of the tumor is the treatment of choice
• In metastatic Sebaceous Carcinomas, a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, may be employed
• Post-operative care is important: A minimum activity level is to be ensured until the surgical wound heals
• Follow-up care with regular screening and check-ups are important

How can Sebaceous Carcinoma of Skin be Prevented?

• Currently, there are no definitive ways to prevent Sebaceous Carcinomas of Skin
• However, limiting or reducing sun-exposure may be beneficial
• By undertaking early and suitable treatment, if individuals have weak immune systems
• Regular medical screening at periodic intervals with blood tests, scans, and physical examinations, are mandatory for those who have already endured the tumor, due to its metastasizing potential and possibility of recurrence. Often several years of active vigilance is necessary

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

• The prognosis of Sebaceous Carcinoma of Skin depends on the tumor stage. Higher-staged Sebaceous Carcinomas, especially those with distant metastasis, have poorer prognoses
• Those tumors that have higher cell proliferation rates, as determined by pathology, after microscopic exam of the tumor, also have poorer prognoses
• The prognosis is generally better with early detection and treatment of the condition

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Sebaceous Carcinoma of Skin:

Individuals with Sebaceous Carcinoma of Skin should be encouraged to be tested for Muir-Torre Syndrome.