Sebaceous carcinoma of the eyelid: anatomoclinical data

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Oncology
• Dermatopathology

Background:

• Sebaceous gland carcinoma (SGC) is a rare but aggressive malignancy of the eyelid.
• Delayed diagnosis is common due to its resemblance to benign periocular lesions like chalazion.

Observation:

• A case report of a 78-year-old female with a year-long history of a nodular tumor on the right upper eyelid.
• Initial treatment for recurrent chalazion was ineffective.
• Ophthalmologic examination revealed a 1 cm ulcerated tumor adherent to surrounding tissues.

Findings:

• Surgical excision with a 4 mm safety margin was performed.
• Histopathological examination confirmed moderately differentiated sebaceous carcinoma using morphological and immunohistochemical (EMA, Ki-67) methods.

Implications:

• Emphasizes the critical need for early diagnosis of sebaceous gland carcinoma to improve patient outcomes.
• Highlights the importance of appropriate surgical management for this rare eyelid malignancy.
• Underscores the potential for significant morbidity and mortality if diagnosis and treatment are delayed, impacting visual function.