Inverse Eruptive Syringoma in a Skin of Color Patient

July 2024 | Volume 23 | Issue 7 | 564 | Copyright © July 2024


Published online June 19, 2024

Jennifer Wang BAa,b,*, Nyousha Yousefi MDa,b,*, Edward Heilman MD FAAD FCAPa, Jared Jagdeo MD MSa,b

aDepartment of Dermatology, State University of New York, Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY
bDermatology Service, Veterans Affairs New York Harbor Healthcare System - Brooklyn Campus, Brooklyn, NY
*Co-authors have contributed equally to this work

Abstract
Syringomas are benign neoplasms derived from eccrine sweat glands. Eruptive syringomas are a subtype of syringomas and are typically located on the chest, neck, and abdomen during puberty or childhood. Herein, we present a 20-year-old African American female with an atypical case of eruptive syringomas, characterized by an unusual distribution on her chest, abdomen, and anterior and posterior bilateral extremities. This case underscores the importance of recognizing diverse presentations of skin conditions in patients with skin of color and adds to the limited reports of eruptive syringoma in these populations. We present and emphasize this atypical manifestation of eruptive syringomas in an individual with darker skin to promote awareness and improve diagnosis and patient outcomes.

J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23(7):564-566. doi:10.36849/JDD.8103

INTRODUCTION

Syringomas are benign adnexal tumors originating from the eccrine sweat gland ducts.1 Syringomas are traditionally classified into four subtypes: localized, generalized, familial, and Down syndrome-associated.2 Eruptive syringomas fall under the generalized subtype of syringomas.2 Eruptive syringoma classically develops during puberty or childhood, predominantly in females, and typically localizes to the chest, neck, and upper abdomen.1,3 Lesions are often stable and benign, although there have been some instances of spontaneous resolution.3,4 Herein, we highlight an atypical case of eruptive syringoma occurring in a patient with a darker skin tone, adding to the dermatologic understanding of skin conditions in individuals with skin of color.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 20-year-old African American female (Fitzpatrick skin type V) presented with dark skin lesions on her chest, abdomen, and bilateral upper and lower extremities. The lesions have been present for 15 years and are asymptomatic, with no associated pain or pruritus. The patient denies the development of new lesions over the years. However, the lesions have been progressively darkening. The patient's maternal aunt had similar lesions that resolved without intervention at 26 years old.
 
The patient's past medical history was significant for asthma but otherwise unremarkable. She had no history of Down syndrome or any relevant dermatologic conditions. No personal or family history of skin cancer. 

Physical examination revealed scattered light to dark brown papules and plaques on the chest, abdomen, and flexure surfaces of the upper extremities greater than the extensor surfaces of the upper extremities and anterior thighs. Lesions were most concentrated and pigmented on the extremities, gradually diminishing in density and intensity towards the central body. No lesions were noted on her face, neck, palms, and soles. No nail changes were noted, and oral mucosa was clear on the exam (Figures 1-3). Due to the patient's distribution