Case of chondroid syringoma mimicking a nodular hidradenoma: A diagnostic pitfall on cytopathology

Limited literature is available on the use of fine needle aspiration (FNA) for skin tumors. Awareness of cytological features of these lesions is important to prevent misdiagnosis. A 45-year-old male, presented with slowly growing swelling over the thigh since 4 years. FNA from multiple sites yielded highly cellular smears with a dual cell population consisting of cells with small round nucleus scanty cytoplasm and polygonal cells with moderate to abundant cytoplasm. Extracellular basement membrane like material was also noted. A diagnosis of benign adnexal neoplasm, suggestive of nodular hidradenoma was made. Paraffin sections showed an encapsulated dermal tumor composed of ductal and myoepithelial cells in ducts, sheets, strands with chondromyxoid stroma. A final diagnosis of chondroid syringoma was given following evaluation of histopathology slides and Immunohistochemistry. FNA interpretation of skin tumors can be challenging since literature is limited. The placement of tumors into benign or malignant category is realistic and can direct management guidelines. Greater awareness of these lesions and following stringent diagnostic criteria can help in establishing a more accurate diagnosis.