Clear Cell Acanthoma
Also known as: Degos Acanthoma
Rare, benign red-brown nodule on the lower legs. Slow-growing with a distinctive wafer-like scale pattern.
What to look for
Side-by-side comparison
Normal leg
No persistent nodules
Clear cell acanthoma
Red-brown nodule, moist surface
Clear cell acanthoma is an uncommon, benign epidermal tumor that typically presents as a solitary, well-defined, dome-shaped, red-brown or pink nodule on the lower leg. It is most common in middle-aged to elderly adults.
A distinctive clinical feature is a wafer-like or stuck-on scale pattern on the surface, and the lesion may have a moist, glistening appearance. It is often misdiagnosed as eczema, psoriasis, or other dermatoses before biopsy reveals its true nature.
Clear cell acanthoma is entirely benign with no malignant potential. It is named for the characteristic clear (glycogen-rich) keratinocytes seen on histological examination, which are sharply demarcated from the surrounding normal epidermis.
Treatment is excision, curettage, or cryotherapy, all of which are curative. Recurrence is rare after complete removal.
Quick self-check
Does this look like clear cell acanthoma? Answer 2 questions.
Is it a solitary red-brown or pink nodule on the lower leg?
Does it have a moist or glistening surface with a scale pattern?
Risk factors
- Age over 50
- No known environmental risk factors
When to see a dermatologist
- ⚠A persistent, solitary red-brown nodule on the lower leg
- ⚠A leg nodule that does not respond to eczema or psoriasis treatment
Often confused with
Not sure if this is clear cell acanthoma? Compare:
Want a more detailed check?
Our full ABCDE checker evaluates 5 clinical criteria in 30 seconds.
Full ABCDE check →Frequently asked questions
Is clear cell acanthoma dangerous?
No. It is completely benign with no malignant potential. Simple removal is curative.