Granular cell tumour (GCT) is a rare soft tissue neoplasm originally thought to arise from skeletal muscle but later recognized as of neural origin. It is most commonly found in the skin, subcutaneous tissue, and oral cavity. GCT typically presents as a painless, slow-growing nodule, often asymptomatic, though malignant cases tend to be larger and may present with pain. We present the case of a 48-year-old female that developed a painless subcutaneous swelling in the right axilla, initially suspected to be a sebaceous cyst. In November 2023, the lesion was excised, and histopathology confirmed a diagnosis of granular cell tumor. This case underscores the necessity for precise histological diagnosis in managing atypical cutaneous and subcutaneous neoplasms like GCT. A multidisciplinary approach, including regular follow-up and advanced diagnostic methods, is key to optimal management and prevention of recurrence or malignant transformation.

A rare case of granular cell tumor in axillary cavity: an unusual occurrence

Faenza, Mario;Antonetti, Andrea Maria
;
Filosa, Francesco Giuseppe;Pelella, Tommaso;Vampa, Federico;Pagliuca, Francesca;Molle, Marcello
2026

Abstract

Granular cell tumour (GCT) is a rare soft tissue neoplasm originally thought to arise from skeletal muscle but later recognized as of neural origin. It is most commonly found in the skin, subcutaneous tissue, and oral cavity. GCT typically presents as a painless, slow-growing nodule, often asymptomatic, though malignant cases tend to be larger and may present with pain. We present the case of a 48-year-old female that developed a painless subcutaneous swelling in the right axilla, initially suspected to be a sebaceous cyst. In November 2023, the lesion was excised, and histopathology confirmed a diagnosis of granular cell tumor. This case underscores the necessity for precise histological diagnosis in managing atypical cutaneous and subcutaneous neoplasms like GCT. A multidisciplinary approach, including regular follow-up and advanced diagnostic methods, is key to optimal management and prevention of recurrence or malignant transformation.
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Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/11591/596569
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