“Bumps Around the Eyes: What Are They? ①Could it be Syringoma?” - 美容整形・美容外科｜船橋中央&青山セレスクリニック　美容整形・美容外科｜船橋中央&青山セレスクリニック

There are various conditions that can cause small bumps around the eyes. Among them, syringoma is known as a benign skin tumor and is especially common in women. In this article, we will delve into the causes, characteristics, and the latest treatment options for syringoma. It’s important to note that syringoma and Eccrine Poroma are entirely different conditions.

The above photo is of syringoma.

Causes and Characteristics of Syringoma Syringoma is a benign skin tumor originating from eccrine sweat glands. The exact cause and mechanism of syringoma’s occurrence are not fully understood. It typically manifests as numerous small flesh-colored bumps on the lower cheek or upper eyelid. It is more common in women and particularly appears around the eyes.

Reasons for Syringoma’s Prevalence Around the Eyes

①Sweat gland distribution: The area around the eyes has a high concentration of eccrine sweat glands. Since syringoma arises from these glands, it tends to occur frequently around this area.

②Skin thinness: The skin around the eyes is thinner compared to other parts of the body. This means even minute changes or small tumors like syringoma are more noticeable.

Relationship Between Syringoma and Hormones

While the exact cause of syringoma is still unknown, fluctuations in female hormones might play a role. There have been reports of syringoma cases during times of significant hormonal changes, such as puberty, pregnancy, or menopause. Some studies suggest that estrogen, a female hormone, may influence eccrine sweat glands, possibly promoting the development of syringoma.

Distinguishing Syringoma from Eccrine Hidrocystoma, Milia, and Sebaceous Hyperplasia Syringoma can be easily confused with eccrine hidrocystoma, milia, and sebaceous hyperplasia, all of which can appear as grainy skin bumps around the eyes. However, a specialist can distinguish them based on the following differences:

Color and Shape: Syringoma appears as semi-transparent, flesh-colored bumps, while eccrine hidrocystoma has a clear or bluish tint. Milia are hard white or flesh-colored nodules, and sebaceous hyperplasia manifests as yellowish or flesh-colored papules.

Texture: Syringoma is firm to the touch, eccrine hidrocystoma is soft and mobile, and milia are hard.

The above photo is of eccrine hidrocystoma.

The above photo is of milia.

The above photo is of sebaceous hyperplasia.

Treatment for Syringoma While syringomas are benign and typically don’t require treatment, some might seek remedies due to cosmetic concerns.

□Electrocautery: A method that uses a small electrical current to burn and remove the tumor.

□Laser treatment: Using CO2 or Erbium lasers to evaporate syringoma.

□Surgical excision: Directly removing the tumor surgically.

□Peeling: Using TCA (Trichloroacetic acid) for a light skin peel to reduce the tumor.

Latest Treatment: Agnes Treatment

The Agnes Radiofrequency (RF) treatment is gaining popularity. This device can precisely deliver RF energy to specific skin depths, selectively causing thermal injury to syringoma tissues, leading to coagulation and destruction. The downtime is relatively short, and its effects are considered long-lasting.

Conclusion

While syringoma is a benign skin tumor and poses a low health risk, many might be self-conscious about its appearance. By selecting the most appropriate treatment method, such as the Agnes treatment, one can effectively address syringoma and lead a more confident life.

Written by Kenta Motogami, M.D.

Director of Funabashi Chuou Clinic (Chiba Pref. Japan) ana Aoyama Celes Clinic (Tokyo)

English is available at these clinics.

【Related Articles】

The Mysteries of Syringoma: Understanding Its Nature and the Innovative Treatment “Agnes”

“Bumps Around the Eyes: What Are They? ②Could it beMilia?”

“Bumps Around the Eyes: What Are They? ③Could it be Eccrine Hidrocystoma?”

Bumps on the face: What are these? Could it be Sebaceous Gland Hyperplasia?

Articles in English

Syringoma