JARROD P. KAUFMAN, MD, FACS
General and Vascular Surgery located in Brick, NJ
Premier Surgical in New Jersey offers comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for Extramammary Paget's Disease (EMPD). This rare condition can affect the skin in areas other than the breasts, often causing irritation and concern.
Understanding Extramammary Paget's Disease
EMPD is a type of cancer that starts in the apocrine sweat glands, typically found in the genital area, armpits, and around the anus. It appears as a red, scaly rash that may resemble eczema or psoriasis
Symptoms can include:
- Itching and burning
- Redness and scaling of the skin
- Crusting or oozing
- Underlying lump (in some cases)
Importance of Early Diagnosis and Treatment
EMPD itself is not a form of skin cancer, but it can be associated with underlying cancers, particularly breast cancer or anogenital cancers. Early diagnosis and treatment of EMPD are crucial to address the primary cause and prevent potential complications.
Benefits of Treatment at Premier Surgical
Premier Surgical offers a comprehensive approach to EMPD treatment in New Jersey:
- Accurate Diagnosis: Our team utilizes advanced diagnostic tools to confirm the diagnosis and identify any underlying malignancies.
- Surgical Expertise: Our board-certified surgeons are skilled in various surgical techniques to remove the affected skin and underlying tissue, aiming for complete removal and optimal cosmetic outcomes.
- Personalized Care: We understand the emotional impact of EMPD and work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and concerns.
- Multidisciplinary Approach: When necessary, we collaborate with oncologists and other specialists to ensure comprehensive care.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you experience any symptoms suggestive of EMPD, don’t hesitate to contact Premier Surgical. Early detection and treatment are vital for optimal outcomes. We offer a supportive environment and are dedicated to providing you with the best possible care.
Extramammary Paget's Disease Q&A
You may click on each heading below to learn more.
- What are the treatment options for Extramammary Paget's Disease (EMPD)?
- What are the benefits of surgery for EMPD?
- What are the potential side effects of surgery for EMPD?
- What happens after surgery for EMPD?
- Are there alternative treatments for EMPD?
- Is there anything I can do to help manage EMPD besides treatment?
The treatment for EMPD depends on several factors, including the size, location, and depth of the affected area, and whether an underlying cancer is present. Common treatment options include:
- Surgery: This is the most common treatment for EMPD. There are different surgical approaches depending on the severity:
- Mohs surgery: This specialized technique removes the cancer cells layer by layer, maximizing the preservation of healthy tissue.
- Wide local excision: This removes the affected area along with a margin of healthy tissue surrounding it.
- Radiation therapy: High-energy X-rays are used to kill cancer cells. It might be used as a primary treatment for small lesions or after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells.
- Topical therapy: In some cases, medicated creams might be used to manage symptoms like itching and inflammation, particularly if surgery is not an option.
Surgery offers the potential for a complete cure, especially if the cancer is caught early and hasn’t spread. It also allows for examination of the removed tissue to determine the presence of underlying cancer and guide further treatment if needed.
Side effects depend on the type and extent of surgery. Common possibilities include:
- Scarring: This is inevitable to some degree but can be minimized with techniques like Mohs surgery.
- Infection: As with any surgery, there’s a risk of infection at the incision site.
- Pain: Pain is usually manageable with medication.
- Bleeding: Minor bleeding is possible but typically controlled by the surgeon.
Following surgery, you’ll likely have regular follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor for any recurrence. This might involve skin examinations, imaging tests, and blood tests depending on your specific situation.
For patients who cannot undergo surgery due to health reasons or personal preference, other options might be considered:
- Radiation therapy: As mentioned earlier, radiation can be used as a primary treatment for small lesions.
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT): This uses light and a photosensitizing drug to destroy cancer cells.
- Cryotherapy: Freezing the affected area with liquid nitrogen might be used for small, non-invasive lesions.
Maintaining good overall health with a balanced diet and regular exercise can be beneficial. Keeping the affected area clean and managing any itching or irritation with doctor-approved methods can also help improve comfort.
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