What is sebaceous gland carcinoma of the eyelid?
Sebaceous gland carcinoma (SGC) of the eyelid is a rare but aggressive type of cancer that originates from the oil-producing (sebaceous) glands in the eyelids. These glands help keep the eyes moist and protect against infections. SGC is the second most common eyelid cancer, following basal cell carcinoma.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of sebaceous gland carcinoma is unknown, but several risk factors have been identified:
- Age: Most commonly affects older adults.
- Gender: More frequently occurs in women than in men.
- Location: More often found in the upper eyelid, where sebaceous glands are more concentrated.
Signs and Symptoms
Patients with SGC may experience the following symptoms:
- A slow-growing lump or mass on the eyelid
- Eye irritation
- Redness in the eye
- Swelling around the eye
- In early stages, SGC often resembles common eyelid conditions like inflammation or a stye, making early detection challenging.
Diagnosis
A multistep diagnostic process is required to confirm sebaceous gland carcinoma:
- Imaging Tests: CT scans or MRIs help determine the tumour’s location, size, and blood supply.
- Biopsy: A small tissue sample is extracted from the tumour and analysed under a microscope.
- Immunohistochemistry: A specialised test used to differentiate SGC from other tumour types.
Treatment Options
The treatment approach depends on the tumour’s stage and spread. The primary options include:
- Surgery: The best treatment for SGC involves surgical removal of the tumour along with nearby affected tissues.
- Radiation Therapy: Often combined with surgery to lower the risk of recurrence.
- Chemotherapy: Used in advanced or metastatic cases, often involving high-dose methotrexate (HD-MTX) to shrink the tumour.
Additional Therapies
- Radiation Therapy: Used as a standalone treatment when surgery is not an option.
- Stem Cell Transplantation: Considered for patients who experience recurrence after chemotherapy.
- Targeted Therapy: Involves testing new drugs in clinical trials for cases resistant to standard treatments.
Early Detection is Crucial!
Sebaceous gland carcinoma can initially appear as a harmless eyelid condition, but delayed treatment may lead to its spread. If you notice any unusual lumps, persistent swelling, or change in your eyelid, consult a doctor immediately for early diagnosis and treatment.
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