Microcystic Adnexal Carcinoma
A rare, locally aggressive cutaneous adenocarcinoma with high recurrence potential, requiring wide excision with histologic margin control.
Full Definition
Microcystic adnexal carcinoma is a rare, locally aggressive cutaneous adenocarcinoma that typically presents on the head and neck of middle-aged to elderly patients. The tumor demonstrates aggressive local growth with perineural invasion and extension into deep tissues, making complete surgical excision challenging. Due to its infiltrative growth pattern and high local recurrence rate, wide excision with histologic margin control is essential. The tumor rarely metastasizes but can cause significant local morbidity if incompletely excised.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as MAC in dermatologic surgery literature.
In Context
- "The microcystic adnexal carcinoma showed extensive perineural invasion requiring staged excision." — Histopathology report
- "Given the aggressive nature of microcystic adnexal carcinoma, wide local excision with frozen section control was performed." — Surgical consultation note