Cytomorphological diagnosis of malignant eccrine tumors: report of two cases

Though FNAC has been successfully used in diagnosing various neoplastic and nonneoplastic cutaneous lesions, there is a paucity of case reports describing the cytomorphological features of adnexal tumors. We hereby describe the cytological features of two histologically confirmed cases of malignant eccrine tumors. Case number 1 presented with an ulcerated infraclavicular swelling whereas case number 2 presented with a cystic swelling over left foot. FNA and histological examination of the resected specimens was performed using standard techniques. A cytological diagnosis of low grade papillary adenocarcinoma arising from skin adnexal structures was given in case number 1. Aspirate from case number 2 was reported as positive for malignant cells, and histological examination was advised. Histological examination revealed the presence of malignant eccrine acrospiroma in case number 1 and papillary digital adenocarcinoma in case number 2. Careful cytological examination displayed the characteristic of two cell population seen in eccrine tumors in both the cases. Diagnosis of malignant eccrine tumors cannot be made with certainity on cytology alone, hence the need to document the cytological features of these entities is emphasized.