Chondroid syringoma

Chondroid syringoma is a rare, benign skin tumor that is also known as a mixed tumor of the skin. It was first described by Hirsch and Helwig in 1961. The tumor is so named because it is composed of both epithelial and mesenchymal tissues, which resemble those found in sweat glands (syringoma) and cartilage (chondroid).

Epidemiology

Chondroid syringomas are rare tumors, accounting for less than 0.01% of all primary skin tumors. They are most commonly found in middle-aged and elderly men, with a male to female ratio of 2:1. The tumors are usually solitary and are most commonly found on the head and neck, particularly the nose and cheek.

Pathogenesis

The exact cause of chondroid syringomas is unknown. They are thought to arise from pluripotent cells in the dermis that differentiate into both epithelial and mesenchymal tissues. Some researchers believe that the tumors may be related to eccrine sweat glands, while others believe they may be related to apocrine sweat glands.

Clinical Presentation

Chondroid syringomas typically present as a slow-growing, painless nodule on the skin. The nodule is usually less than 3 cm in diameter and is often covered by normal-appearing skin. The overlying skin may be slightly blue or purple in color. The tumor is usually firm and fixed to the underlying tissues.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of chondroid syringoma is usually made based on the clinical presentation and histopathological examination of the tumor. The tumor is composed of nests and cords of epithelial cells in a chondromyxoid stroma. The epithelial cells may form duct-like structures that contain eosinophilic material.

Treatment

The treatment of choice for chondroid syringoma is surgical excision. The tumor is usually well-circumscribed and can be easily removed with a margin of normal tissue. Recurrence after surgical excision is rare.

Prognosis

The prognosis for chondroid syringoma is excellent. The tumor is benign and does not metastasize. However, it can cause local tissue destruction if it is not treated.

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