Eyelid lesions in general practice

Patients with eyelid lesions often present in the primary healthcare setting. Although most eyelid lumps are benign, accurate diagnosis and early recognition of sinister lesions leads to improved patient outcomes.

The aim of this article is to provide an overview of common eyelid lesions presenting to the general practitioner.

The majority of eyelid lesions are benign, ranging from innocuous cysts (cysts of Moll, Zeis and epidermoid cyst) and chalazion/hordeolum to naevi and papillomas. Key features that should prompt further investigation include gradual enlargement, central ulceration or induration, irregular borders, eyelid margin destruction or loss of lashes, and telangiectasia. The presence of these features should prompt referral to an ophthalmologist for further evaluation.