Cylindroma

by Jason Wasserman MD PhD FRCPC
November 14, 2024

Cylindroma is a non-cancerous type of skin tumour that develops from sweat glands normally found in the skin. People with Brooke–Spiegler syndrome (BSS) commonly develop multiple cylindromas. This syndrome is associated with an alteration in the gene CLYD.

Where are cylindromas found?

Cylindromas are typically found on the head and neck, but the upper chest and back can also be involved.

What causes a cylindroma?

For most patients, the cause of a cylindroma remains unknown. However, patients with the genetic syndrome Brooke–Spiegler syndrome (BSS) are known to develop multiple cylindromas. In patients with BSS, the tumours are caused by a change in the gene CYLD.

Can a cylindroma turn into cancer over time?

No. A cylindroma is a non-cancerous tumour that will not become cancerous over time.

How is this diagnosis made?

The diagnosis is made after part or all of the tumour is removed, and the tissue is examined under a microscope by a pathologist.

Microscopic features

When examined under the microscope, the tumour is made up of dark blue cells. Pathologists describe these cells as basaloid because they resemble the basal cells normally found in the skin. The tumour cells are arranged in small groups separated by a bright pink basement membrane material. The groups of tumour cells are often described as showing a ‘jigsaw-like pattern of growth.’

Margins

A margin is any tissue cut by the surgeon to remove the tumour from your body. A negative margin means no tumour cells were at the tissue’s edge. A margin is considered positive when tumour cells are at the tissue’s edge. A positive margin is associated with a higher risk of the tumour growing back in the same site after treatment.