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IMAGE DESCRIPTIONS

Case 1: Cystic cavity with keratinaceous debris, lined by stratified squamous epithelium and bulbous lobules of keratinocytes extending into the dermis.

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BACKGROUND

Pilar sheath acanthoma, dilated pore (of Winer), and trichofolliculoma all share similar features of a dilated pore or cystic cavity filled with keratinous debris, very similar to epidermoid inclusion cysts. In the case of a dilated pore of Winer, the lining of the pore is of squamous epithelium with multiple epithelial "buds" that do not form hair shafts. If this lining is forms massive bulbous epithelial buds, then, the entity is called a pilar sheath acanthoma. For trichofolliculoma, there is a central cystic cavity lined by squamous epithelium, however, small secondary hair follicles emanate from this cystic cavity (Busam).

We shall now focus our discussion on pilar sheath acanthoma. Histologically, pilar sheath acanthomas are characterized by a cystic cavity lined by stratified squamous epithelium. The cavity usually contain keratinous debris and opens onto the surface. The cavity wall is lined by numerous lobules of pink keratinocytes, often referred to as tumor lobules, which often extend into the dermis and subcutis. Tumor lobules are composed of outer root sheath epithelium.

CLINICAL

Typically affect middle-aged and elderly individuals. They commonly present as small (5-10mm), solitary, skin-colored papule located on the head and neck resembling a comedo. The upper lip is the classic location for these lesions. A central sinus containing a keratin plug is often present.

RELATED DIAGNOSES

Adnexal : Trichofolliculoma

REFERENCES

Busam KJ. Dermatopathology: Foundations in Diagnostic Pathology 1st Ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2010: 381-2.

Mehregan AH, Brownstein MH. Pilar sheath acanthoma. Arch Dermatol. 1978;114:1495-7.

Taylor RS, Perone JB, Kaddu S, Kerl H. Chapter 119. Appendage Tumors and Hamartomas of the Skin. In: Wolff K, Goldsmith LA, Katz SI, Gilchrest BA, Paller AS, Leffell DJ, eds. Fitzpatrick's Dermatology in General Medicine. 7th ed. New York: McGraw-Hill; 2008.

Weedon D. Skin Pathology. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elvsevier; 2010: 765.

Last updated: 2012-02-10
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