MICROCYSTIC ADNEXAL CARCINOMA - AN UNDER- RECOGNIZED CUTANEOUS NEOPLASM

Microcystic adnexal carcinoma is a rare semimalignant cutaneous neopla sm characterised by slow but locally aggressive growth. Its histogenes is and nomenclature are still a subject of controversy. Under-recognit ion and the tumour's bland cytologic features lead to frequent misdiag noses. In addition, subclinical tumour invasion explains the high inci dence of local recurrence. Thus, the tumour makes great demands on the planning of its surgical removal. We report the case of an 81-year-ol d woman with a microcystic adnexal carcinoma of the lower lip, which w as treated by micrographic surgery. On the basis of this case, differe ntial diagnoses, histogenesis and micrographic surgery as the treatmen t of choice are discussed.