Primary cystadenocarcinoma of the lacrimal gland

To report a patient with a cystadenocarcinoma of the lacrimal gland, a tumor not previously described in the ophthalmic literature. Salivary gland cystadenocarcinomas constitute a distinct group of epithelial malignancies characterized by an invasive, predominantly cystic pattern of growth that have an indolent behavior and a low incidence of metastases and recurrences.

Single interventional case report.

The clinical findings, results of imaging studies, and pathologic findings are presented.

A 67-year-old man presented with a 5-year history of ptosis in the right upper eyelid. A lacrimal fossa tumor was found. The tumor was excised with an intact capsule, and the histopathologic diagnosis was primary cystadenocarcinoma of the lacrimal gland. The patient received no other form of treatment and has been observed for 1 year without evidence of recurrence or metastatic disease.

Until recently, primary adenocarcinomas of the lacrimal gland were not further subclassified. Current knowledge gained from salivary gland tumors indicates that primary adenocarcinoma encompasses a group of tumors with separate morphologic features and varied biologic behavior.