Eyelid tumors are very common and are a frequent reason for consulting the ophthalmologist. They encompass a wide variety of lesions that can be benign or malignant.

Most are benign, which are generally asymptomatic and are only a cosmetic problem, looking like “moles”, “cysts”, or “warts”. In some cases they can grow, multiply and affect the free edge of the eyelid, which becomes a functional problem. Its treatment is simple, it may require resection, cauterization or cryotherapy, without leaving a significantly evident scar.

There are also a variety of malignant tumors that can affect the eyelids, there are several types, the most common being basal cell carcinoma.

They usually occur in people over 40 years of age. The most important risk factors are chronic sun exposure and light skin. Initially, they appear suddenly as nodules, “lumps”, “pimples”, of the same color as the skin or more pigmented, their growth speed is variable, they generally grow quickly in a matter of months, and changes begin to be seen in their appearance. color, shape or ulcerations (“non-healing scabs”).

Many of these changes are so rapid and not noticeable by patients initially, until advanced stages. For this reason, in the presence of any lesion on the eyelid it is advisable to go to the ophthalmologist, who will perform a detailed examination using the slit lamp to identify signs of malignancy and decide on treatment.

The treatment of malignant eyelid tumors generally begins with a biopsy, that is, a surgical procedure performed under a microscope, where a part or the entire lesion is removed to send it for pathology study to clarify the diagnosis.