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Skin Cancer

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is a type of cancer that occurs when there is an abnormal growth of skin cells, usually triggered by damage to the DNA within the skin cells. It is primarily caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer worldwide, and its incidence continues to rise.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. It typically develops in...

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Pleomorphic Leiomyosarcoma Presenting as a Upper Back Epidermal Inclusion Cyst.

Christian Taylor Smith¹, Douglas J Grider^1,2,3

¹Department of Basic Science Education, Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, VA.

The American Journal of Dermatopathology

|January 19, 2021

Summary

A rare case of pleomorphic leiomyosarcoma presented as a skin mass, initially misdiagnosed as a cyst. Immunohistochemical studies were crucial for accurate diagnosis of this soft tissue sarcoma.

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Isolation of Human Lymphatic Endothelial Cells by Multi-parameter Fluorescence-activated Cell Sorting

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Published on: May 1, 2015

Area of Science:

Dermatopathology
Surgical Pathology
Oncology

Background:

Leiomyosarcoma is a malignant mesenchymal tumor that can arise in various soft tissues and organs.
While common in deep soft tissues, large intradermal leiomyosarcomas are exceptionally rare.
Accurate diagnosis is essential for appropriate patient management and treatment strategies.

Observation:

A 64-year-old male presented with a tender, enlarging soft-tissue mass on his upper back with a central pore.
Initial clinical presentation mimicked a ruptured epidermal inclusion cyst.
Histological examination revealed a heterogeneous pleomorphic sarcoma with fascicular and storiform areas, infiltrating dermal and subcutaneous layers.

Findings:

The tumor exhibited areas of myxoid stroma, necrosis, and prominent extension into pilosebaceous units.
Immunohistochemistry was critical: initial desmin staining was negative, but subsequent stains on additional sections showed strong, diffuse desmin positivity in pleomorphic areas.
Smooth muscle actin was positive, and CD31 highlighted vascularity; no rhabdomyoblasts were identified.

Implications:

This case underscores the importance of considering rare differentials, even with seemingly benign presentations.
Heterogeneous tumors necessitate comprehensive histological evaluation, including immunohistochemistry on multiple tissue sections.
Accurate diagnosis of pleomorphic leiomyosarcoma is vital for guiding therapeutic decisions in soft tissue sarcomas.