Summary about Disease
Eccrine poroma is a benign (non-cancerous) skin tumor that originates from the eccrine sweat glands. It typically presents as a small, raised bump or nodule, most commonly found on the soles of the feet, palms of the hands, or sides of the fingers and toes. While generally harmless, it can sometimes cause discomfort or pain, and a biopsy is often needed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.
Symptoms
A small, raised bump or nodule on the skin.
Common locations include the soles of the feet, palms of the hands, or sides of fingers/toes.
The lesion can be skin-colored, red, or pink.
It may be slightly tender or painful, especially if located in an area of pressure.
Some lesions may bleed easily.
The size can vary, but they are typically less than 2 cm in diameter.
Causes
The exact cause of eccrine poroma is unknown. However, it is believed to arise from abnormal proliferation of cells within the eccrine sweat ducts. There are no definitively established risk factors, although some cases have been associated with trauma to the area.
Medicine Used
The primary treatment for eccrine poroma is surgical excision. Medications are generally not used to treat the tumor itself, but pain relievers (such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen) may be used to manage any discomfort associated with the lesion prior to removal. Topical antibiotics can be used to prevent infection if the tumor has been ulcerated.
Is Communicable
No, eccrine poroma is not communicable. It is not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
There are no specific precautions to prevent eccrine poroma since the cause is unknown. However, avoiding trauma to the hands and feet may be helpful. Protecting the lesion from irritation and infection is important. If a suspicious skin growth appears, prompt evaluation by a dermatologist is recommended.
How long does an outbreak last?
Eccrine poroma is not an "outbreak" but a tumor. If left untreated, it will persist indefinitely. After surgical excision, the issue is typically resolved, though recurrence is possible, but rare.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually involves a physical examination by a dermatologist, followed by a skin biopsy. The biopsy involves removing a small sample of the lesion and examining it under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other skin conditions, including malignant tumors.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms varies. An eccrine poroma typically starts as a small, barely noticeable bump. It may slowly grow over time (weeks, months, or even years) until it becomes symptomatic or is noticed by the individual. There is no predictable rate of growth.
Important Considerations
While eccrine poromas are benign, it is crucial to have any new or changing skin lesions evaluated by a dermatologist to rule out malignancy.
Surgical excision is the most common and effective treatment, but other options may be considered depending on the size and location of the lesion.
Rarely, eccrine poroma can transform into a malignant tumor (eccrine porocarcinoma), highlighting the importance of regular skin exams and prompt evaluation of any suspicious changes in existing lesions.
It is vital to adhere to the dermatologist's instructions post-surgery to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications.