Neglected microcystic adnexal carcinoma: the second reported case in a black patient.
BACKGROUND
Microcystic adnexal carcinoma (MAC) is a histologically aggressive appendageal neoplasm that often pursues a beguilingly indolent clinical course. MAC has previously been reported only once in a black patient.


OBJECTIVE
To present the second MAC ever recorded in a black patient.


METHODS
We describe a MAC of substantial dimension occurring in a black patient. The literature was subsequently examined for MAC occurring in ethnic patients.


RESULTS
This MAC is remarkable not only for its occurrence in a black patient, but also because it is one of the largest MACs ever recorded (8 cm), it occurs in a relatively less common site (scalp), and its latency period before diagnosis is the longest ever definitively documented (31 years).


CONCLUSIONS
MAC is rare among non-Caucasians. Its relatively indolent clinical growth, especially in sites that are poorly accessible to patient observation, may lead to significant delay in diagnosis and treatment.
Gardner
E S
ES
DermSurgery Associates, P.A., Houston, Texas 77030, USA.
Goldberg
L H
LH
D018280:Carcinoma, Skin Appendage / Q000473:pathology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D012535:Scalp; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000473:pathology*; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology*