Eyelid Lesions & Skin Cancer

There are several types of skin cancers and lesions that can appear on and around the eyelid: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma, and sebaceous gland carcinoma. A biopsy is usually required to confirm the diagnosis of skin cancer.

Basal and Squamous Cell Skin Cancer

Basal cell and squamous cell skin carcinomas are the most common types that appear around the eyes. Either may appear as a painless nodule, or a crusting sore that won’t heal. These malignant growths tend to enlarge locally and rarely spread to other parts of the body. Left untreated, however, these tumors will continue to grow and invade surrounding structures. Early surgical treatment to remove them completely while maintaining a minimally invasive technique is optimal.

What is Melanoma?

Melanoma is a less common but more serious form of cancer. It may present itself as a mole that bleeds, suddenly becomes tender or changes in size and shape. Sebaceous gland carcinoma is also a more serious form of malignant skin tumor that forms in the oil glands beneath the skin’s surface. It may appear as a thickening of the eyelid or persistent eyelid inflammation. Both Melanomas and sebaceous gland carcinomas can spread to other parts of the body, and a more aggressive treatment plan may be necessary to reduce the risk of early spread. You can learn more about identifying rare malignancies and managing aggressive tumor growth on the Skin Cancer Foundation website.

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Ideal Candidates for Skin Cancer Treatment

According to the American Cancer Society, cutaneous malignancies in America are considered a growing epidemic. Excessive sun exposure is the single most important factor associated with cancerous growths on the face, eyelids, and arms. Other risk factors include having fair or light skin, a family history of dermal lesions, a personal history of malignant skin tumors, smoking, exposure to certain chemicals, and older age. Men are two times more likely to develop basal cell carcinomas than women, and three times more likely to have squamous cell variants.

Things to Consider