A syringoma is a harmless bump often found on the upper cheeks and lower eyelids of young men and women. Syringomas are caused by an overgrowth of sweat glands (eccrine glands).
Syringomas often occur after puberty, and can develop in any race or ethnicity. Girls are more often affected compared to boys, and it tends to run in families. Syringomas appear more often in people with Down syndrome, as are those with diabetes mellitus.
Syringomas most often occur on the:
- Upper cheeks
- Lower eyelids
- Armpits
- Chest area
- Stomach/abdomen
- Forehead
- Penis or vulva
What do syringomas look like?
Syringomas look like a flesh-coloured sometimes-yellowish bump, about 1-3mm in diameter. They occur in evenly-distributed clusters. Eruptive syringomas look like lesions that appear on the chest and abdomen.
What are the different types of syringoma?
According to the classification scheme proposed by Friedman and Butler, there are four recognised variants of syringoma:
- Localised syringoma. This type refers to syringomas that appear in a specific, localised area, often around the lower eyelids or cheeks.
- Down Syndrome-associated syringoma. This variant is found in individuals with Down syndrome. The presence of syringomas in these individuals is believed to be due to genetic factors related to this condition.
- Generalised syringoma. This form is characterised by multiple syringomas that can emerge in various body parts, including an eruptive pattern where numerous syringomas appear suddenly.
- Familial syringoma. This form of syringoma runs in families, appearing in multiple members across generations, indicating a genetic predisposition.
What triggers syringoma?
Syringomas have a cause that is not entirely understood, though several factors are believed to play a role. One of these is genetics, as some forms of syringomas, like familial syringomas, are known to run in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition.
Another potential trigger is hormonal changes. The fact that syringomas often first appear during puberty suggests a possible link to hormonal changes. This theory is further supported by some studies that have reported an increase in syringomas during pregnancy.
Certain medical conditions, such as Down Syndrome, are also associated with a higher incidence of syringomas. In addition, skin trauma or damage could stimulate the eccrine sweat glands, leading to syringoma formation in some cases.
Lastly, age may be a factor, as syringomas typically appear during adolescence or early adulthood, which could be related to physiological changes during these stages.
Do syringomas hurt or itch?
No, syringomas don’t feel like anything much.
Why do syringomas appear?
Syringomas can appear quite suddenly (eruptive syringoma), particularly in those with darker skin. We’re not sure why.
How do I get rid of the syringoma on my face?
There are several treatment options available to you. A dermatologist is the best person to consult for syringoma treatment, as they can diagnose the condition correctly and guide you through the appropriate treatment options.
What medicine is used for syringoma?
There isn’t a specific medicine that can cure syringomas, as they are benign growths originating from sweat glands. However, topical treatments like retinoids or glycolic acid creams may help reduce their appearance. Discussing these options with a healthcare professional before starting any treatment is crucial to ensure they suit your specific case.
What is the latest treatment for syringoma?
Advances in medical technology have led to the development of various treatment methods for syringomas. Some of the latest treatments include laser therapy–such as CO2 and fractional lasers–and electrosurgery, which uses electrical current to remove the syringomas. There’s also cryotherapy, which involves freezing the lesions using liquid nitrogen, and excision, where the syringomas are surgically cut out. These treatments can be effective, but they may also carry risks such as scarring and changes in skin colour.
What is the Best Treatment for Syringoma?
The “best” treatment for syringoma largely depends on your specific circumstances, including the number, size, and location of the syringomas, as well as your overall health, skin type and personal preferences. Treatments that work well for some may be less effective for you. That being said, many dermatologists find that procedures like laser therapy or electrosurgery often provide good results.
Can a Dermatologist Treat Syringoma?
Yes, a dermatologist can definitely treat syringomas. Dermatologists are skin specialists trained in diagnosing and treating a wide range of skin conditions, including syringomas. They can evaluate your skin, provide a diagnosis, discuss potential treatments, and perform the procedures, if necessary. So we highly recommend consulting with a dermatologist if you’re considering treatment for syringomas to ensure you receive the most appropriate and effective care.
Our dermatologists can help
If you are concerned about the appearance of your syringomas, make an appointment with one of our specialist dermatologists, who can help guide you regarding treatment choices. Since this may happen to teenagers and young adults, parental assistance will likely be required.
Contact us today.
