Microcystic Adnexal Carcinoma of the Face Treated With Definitive Chemoradiation: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Abstract

Abstract Background Microcystic adnexal carcinoma (MAC) is a rare, locally invasive skin neoplasm most commonly in the head and neck. MAC is routinely treated surgically and scant data is available regarding the role of definitive chemoradiotherapy (chemoRT) as a surgical alternative. Methods A single case of MAC treated with upfront chemoRT is presented along with a review of the literature. Results A 73-year old man with locally advanced MAC of the philtrum and nose declined surgery and was treated with concurrent intensity-modulated RT (70Gy) and paclitaxel/carboplatin. His tumor responded clinically within two weeks of treatment. Partial radiographic response was observed at three months with improvement up to one year post-treatment. He remains asymptomatic and progression-free six years from the completion of his treatment. Conclusion Definitive chemoRT may be a nonsurgical treatment alternative for MAC when surgery is not possible or declined.