Recurrent Papillary Apocrine Carcinoma of the Vulva

Abstract:

Apocrine carcinoma of the vulva is a rare form of vulvar cancer, with the papillary subtype being even more uncommon. There are less than 20 reported cases of vulvar apocrine carcinoma, and only 2 reported cases specifically of the tubulo-papillary subtype. Here we discuss the case of a woman in her mid-50s who presented with recurrent vulvar papillary apocrine carcinoma and was treated with wide local excision. Prognosis and treatment guidelines are not standardized because of the rarity of this condition. Given that the incidence of vulvar cancer has been rising in younger women and can initially present with subtle findings, these rarer subtypes should be considered in the differential for any unusual vulvar lesion.