Clear cell hidradenoma: a mimic of metastatic clear cell tumors

Arch Pathol Lab Med. 2005 May;129(5):e113-6. doi: 10.5858/2005-129-e113-CCHAMO.

Abstract

Clear cell hidradenoma is a benign skin appendage tumor that may mimic conventional-type renal cell carcinoma. Histologically, clear cell hidradenoma contains small ductular lumens, focal apocrine and squamoid change, and a less prominent vascular pattern than renal cell carcinoma. Furthermore, immunohistochemical studies can aid in distinguishing the 2 tumors. Knowing the cytologic features of primary skin adnexal neoplasms helps distinguish them from cutaneous metastases, which are more commonly referred for fine-needle aspiration biopsy evaluation. Detailed clinical history, physical findings, and ancillary studies are essential for correct diagnosis and categorization of these tumors. We report the rare case of a patient with renal cell carcinoma who underwent excision of an axillary clear cell hidradenoma, which was clinically suggestive of cutaneous metastatic disease.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adenoma, Sweat Gland / chemistry
  • Adenoma, Sweat Gland / diagnosis*
  • Adenoma, Sweat Gland / surgery
  • Axilla
  • Biomarkers, Tumor / analysis
  • Carcinoma, Renal Cell / diagnosis*
  • Carcinoma, Renal Cell / secondary
  • Carcinoma, Renal Cell / surgery
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Kidney Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Kidney Neoplasms / surgery
  • Lymph Nodes / pathology
  • Lymph Nodes / surgery
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Mitotic Index
  • Neoplasm Metastasis / diagnosis
  • Neoplasms, Multiple Primary / chemistry
  • Neoplasms, Multiple Primary / diagnosis*
  • Neoplasms, Multiple Primary / surgery
  • Sweat Gland Neoplasms / chemistry
  • Sweat Gland Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Sweat Gland Neoplasms / surgery
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor