Benign Neoplasms
There are a wide variety of benign tumours that can appear on the eyelids. With some experience, the majority of these can be identified by biomicroscopy (slit lamp). It is important to differentiate between benign tumours and malignant formations. The main benign tumours in the eyelids are cysts and pigmented tumours. The formation of a cyst is in the vast majority of cases a sign of benignity. On the other hand, a pigmented lesion may be benign or associated with a malignant tumour.
Benign tumours do not require treatment, but should be checked regularly.
Malignant tumours
There are 3 main types of malignant eyelid tumours:
- basal cell carcinoma
- squamous cell carcinoma
- sebaceous carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common tumour of the eyelid and accounts for about 85% of all eyelid tumours. BCC usually affects adults. There is a relationship with sun exposure and the lower eyelid is most affected.
Metastases associated with BCC are very rare and the prognosis is usually very good. Treatment is based on complete excision of the tumor, taking care to remove all malignant tissue. Depending on the size of the tumour, different reconstruction techniques will be used to correct the defect.
Squamous cell carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma of the eyelid is rare and accounts for about 5% of all eyelid tumours. There is a relationship with sun exposure and adults are most affected. Squamous cell carcinoma behaves more aggressively than basal cell carcinoma and is more likely to spread.
Sebaceous carcinoma
Sebaceous carcinoma is a cancer of the sebaceous glands of the eyelid and accounts for up to 5% of all malignant tumours of the eyelid. This condition mainly affects the elderly and women are at greater risk than men. In general, the tumour is located on the upper eyelid. The diagnosis of carcinoma remains difficult: it is often confused with a benign condition such as blepharitis or chalazion. Consequently, it is often diagnosed at an advanced stage and presents an aggressive behaviour.
THE PLACE DE PARIS OPHTHALMOLOGY CENTER
Ophthalmological consultation and treatment center located next to Place de Paris, in Luxembourg.
Dr Christian Eulufi
Dr Tom Pavant
Dr Carla Schmartz
USEFUL INFORMATION
34, avenue de la Liberté
L-1930 Luxembourg
+352 28 86 72
[email protected]
Opening time
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Wednesday: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT
By phone at +352 28 86 72
Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 5 p.m., except Wednesday afternoon
By email by writing to [email protected]