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  • Treatment for Extramammary Paget’s Disease (EMPD) depends on whether the cancer is confined to the skin or has spread deeper or to other organs. Because EMPD can recur, close follow-up is important. Your doctor will recommend what’s best for your situation, but some common treatment options include:

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    • Wide local excision (removal of the affected skin)

    • Mohs micrographic surgery for precise removal and margin control

    • Radiation therapy if surgery is not possible or as an additional treatment

    • Laser therapy or photodynamic therapy in select cases

    • Topical treatments, such as imiquimod cream, for superficial disease

    • Systemic therapies (chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy) for advanced or metastatic EMPD

  • While there is no guaranteed way to prevent Extramammary Paget’s Disease (EMPD), you can take proactive steps to support early detection and care:

    Bullet Points

    Pay attention to persistent rashes or lesions in the genital, anal, or underarm areas

    See a healthcare provider if a skin change does not improve with standard treatments

    Ask about a biopsy for any chronic or unexplained irritation

    Share personal and family history of cancers with your doctor

    Schedule regular skin and health check-ups, especially if you are over 50

  • EMPD often mimics common skin conditions, which can delay diagnosis. Symptoms may include:

    • Red, scaly, or inflamed patch of skin in the genital, anal, or underarm area

    • Persistent itching, burning, or irritation

    • Thickened or crusted skin that may resemble eczema or dermatitis

    • Oozing, bleeding, or ulcerated lesions

    • Recurring rash that does not improve with typical treatments

  • While the exact cause of Extramammary Paget’s Disease (EMPD) is not fully understood, several factors may increase risk:

    • More common in people over age 50

    • Occurs more frequently in women than men

    • History of cancers in the genitourinary or gastrointestinal tract

    • Possible link with underlying internal malignancies

    • Chronic irritation or inflammation in the affected area

Extramammary Paget's Disease

Extramammary Paget’s Disease (EMPD) is a rare skin cancer that often appears in areas with apocrine glands, such as the genital, anal, or underarm regions. Because it can mimic common skin conditions like eczema or dermatitis, EMPD is frequently misdiagnosed, leading to delays in treatment. While sometimes limited to the skin, EMPD can also be associated with underlying cancers. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent recurrence and manage potential spread.

EMPD Risk Factors
EMPD signs and symtoms
EMPD prevention
EMPD treatment options

  • Extramammary Paget’s Disease (EMPD) is a rare form of skin cancer that develops in areas with sweat (apocrine) glands, such as the vulva, penis, scrotum, perianal region, or underarms. It usually begins in the outer layer of the skin (epidermis) and may remain confined there, but in some cases it can become invasive or indicate an underlying internal cancer. Because EMPD often resembles common skin conditions like eczema, dermatitis, or fungal infections, it is frequently misdiagnosed, which can delay treatment. Early recognition and biopsy are essential to ensure accurate diagnosis and timely care.

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