Definition: Adenoacanthoma refers to a type of skin cell tumor that appears on the outermost layer of skin called the dermis (the layers between the skin and underlying muscle). Adenoacanthomas are often seen in adults, but they can also occur in children up to age 18. The exact cause of adenoacanthoma is not fully understood. It is thought that it may be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, such as exposure to certain substances or infections. Some theories suggest that the cells in an adenoacanthoma may have a mutation causing them to grow at the outer layer of skin. The most common form of adenoacanthoma is called fibroblastoma, which occurs when the innermost cells in the dermis become inflamed and produce abnormal fibrous tissue. Other forms of adenoacanthoma include keratoacanthoma (a type of growth on the eyelids) and pustular adenoacanthoma (an inflammation of the skin that may appear as a white spot). The adenoacanthoma is typically associated with other medical conditions such as alopecia areata, which affects about 1 in every 300,000 people worldwide. The specific symptoms of adenoacanthoma can vary from person to person, but they often include redness and swelling on the skin surface. Adenoacanthomas may cause discomfort or pain when touched, as well as a feeling of itchiness. They are often treated with surgery (such as excision) to remove any affected skin tissue. Other treatments may involve medications that help reduce inflammation and pain caused by adenoacanthoma.

adenoacanthoma