Cutaneous adenoid cystic carcinoma: clinical conundrum of a lower limb mass

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Adenoid cystic carcinoma is a rare epithelial tumour of the salivary glands It arises even more rarely in the aerodigestive tract, lacrimal glands and adnexal skin glands. Acral metastasis is a rare presentation of carcinoma of unknown origin. Head and neck malignancies with acral metastasis are extremely rare. CASE REPORT: We present our case of metastatic adenoid cystic carcinoma presenting in the form of a tumour arising from an adnexal skin gland of the foot DISCUSSION: The case is an example of atypical presentation and dilemma in diagnosis of adenoid cystic carcinoma (histopathological confusion). To our knowledge there is no case in the literature with similar clinicopathological highlights CONCLUSION: Corroborative information is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of patients by multidisciplinary teams. The need for timeous presentation and treatment for masses, even if clinically asymptomatic, is also highlighted Level of evidence: Level 5