Sebaceous adenoma: what is it and what are the causes

By Cristiano Antonino Last updated Feb 13, 2023

Sebaceous adenoma is a benign neoformation that generally appears in patients over 50 years of age. To date, the causes of its occurrence are not clear

Clinically it occurs in the form of small skin reliefs (papules) or small yellowish-white nodules (1-2 mm) with a slight central depression (umbilication).

Lesions may be single or, more commonly, multiple, but are not confluent; they rarely become larger, being able to reach even 5 cm.

The body sites most affected are the scalp, forehead, temples, neck, cheeks, perinasal region and upper trunk.

Palms of hands and soles of feet are excluded

Although it is a non-malignant lesion, sebaceous adenoma in some cases needs to be investigated to exclude that it represents the sign of a rare hereditary disease, Muir-Torre syndrome, which is characterized by multiple sebaceous adenomas, skin tumors and other neoplasms.

In other cases, the formation may present suspicious characteristics for a malignant tumor of the skin.

When it presents unusual elements, the doctor may request the removal of the nodule to carry out a histological study.

Sebaceous adenoma: symptoms

By itself, the sebaceous adenoma does not cause serious symptoms or disturbances (itching, pain, etc.) and is not contagious, therefore no specific treatment is necessary.

However, when present on areas such as the face, neck or décolleté, the subject prefers to consult a specialist for removal for exclusive aesthetic purposes.

Sebaceous adenoma: Muir-Torre syndrome

Muir-Torre syndrome (MTS) is a rare autosomal syndrome characterized by the uncontrolled appearance of multiple sebaceous adenomas and skin tumors, in association with visceral tumors (genitourinary tract, gastrointestinal tract).

Subjects with suspected diagnosis are worthy of further investigations such as CT and MRI, genetic counseling and, unlike healthy patients, have indications for the removal of the nodules.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis is pretty simple.

In fact, a correct objective examination by the specialist doctor is sufficient, after the collection of anamnestic information to exclude familiarity with other more serious pathologies.

Treatment of sebaceous adenoma

Unless there are aesthetic discomforts or complications (bleeding or superinfection), the sebaceous adenoma generally does not need to be removed as several studies have shown that it does not spread or cause significant damage to the body.

Unless they show any unusual features and the diagnosis of STD has been ruled out, the formations are not removed except for purely cosmetic reasons.

The most effective removal technique is the carbon dioxide laser, as a result of which a small wound is formed which heals in a few weeks.

The results are excellent and in most cases no recurrence is observed.

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