Tumors

Benign tumors

There are a variety of benign tumors that can occur in the eyelid area. With some experience, most of them can be identified by biomicroscopy (slit lamp). It is important to distinguish between benign tumors and malignant formations. The most important benign tumors in the eyelid area are cysts and pigmented tumors. The formation of a cyst is a sign of benignity in the vast majority of cases. A pigmented lesion, on the other hand, may be associated with a benign or a malignant tumor.

Benign tumors do not need to be treated, but should still be checked regularly.

Malignant tumors

There are 3 main types of malignant tumors of the eyelid, of which basal cell carcinoma is by far the most common. It accounts for about 85% of all eyelid tumors, with squamous cell carcinoma and sebaceous gland carcinoma among the rest.

Basal cell carcinoma usually affects adults. There is an association with sun exposure and the lower eyelid is most commonly affected.
Metastases associated with basal cell carcinoma 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 tumor, different reconstruction techniques are used to correct the defect.