Background
Apocrine hidrocystomas are benign cystic proliferations of the apocrine secretory glands. Apocrine hidrocystomas most commonly appear as solitary, soft, dome-shaped, translucent papules or nodules and most frequently are located on the eyelids, especially the inner canthus. Apocrine hidrocystomas grow slowly and usually persist indefinitely.
Pathophysiology
The exact stimulus for the development of an apocrine hidrocystoma is unknown. Plausible causes of the closely related eccrine hidrocystoma include occlusion or blockage of the sweat duct apparatus, which results in the retention of sweat and a dilated cystic structure.
Epidemiology
Frequency
United States
Apocrine hidrocystomas are relatively common in the United States.
Mortality/Morbidity
Apocrine hidrocystomas are entirely benign and seldom recur after removal. Cysts may annoy patients; however, symptoms usually are mild or absent. Vision usually is not affected.
Race
No predilection for race or geographic region is recognized for apocrine hidrocystomas.
Sex
No sex predilection is described for apocrine hidrocystomas.
Age
Apocrine hidrocystomas occur in adulthood, although in no particular age group.
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