What are eyelid tumors?
Due to the complex and rich anatomy of the periocular region, a wide variety of tumors can occur in this area. Fortunately , the vast majority are benign and can be treated easily and without leaving a visible scar. However, there are also a variety of malignant tumors that can affect the periocular region. In this section, we will describe the most important aspects of the diagnosis and treatment of these malignant lesions.
What tumors can occur on the eyelids?
Basal cell carcinoma is by far the most common eyelid tumor and is also the most common cancer worldwide in white people. It is directly related to sun exposure and usually occurs in people over 40 years of age. Fair skin is a clear risk factor, while it is practically nonexistent in black people. Mortality from basal cell carcinoma is extremely low because it behaves relatively benignly.
It is a cancer that does not spread (there are exceptions) and only causes local invasion. However, the local destruction it causes can be significant in structures as delicate and important as the eyelids. The most common location is the lower eyelid, followed by the inner corner of the eye and the upper eyelid. Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common eyelid cancer. It is also related to sun exposure and is more common in people with fair skin. It is a more invasive tumor than basal cell carcinoma , as it causes greater tissue destruction and can spread to produce metastasis .
