A tumour is a group of abnormal cells that form lumps or growths. The new growth of abnormal tissue is often uncontrolled and progressive. Depending on whether a tumour is cancerous, non-cancerous, or precancerous — it can behave differently and affect any of the cells in our bodies — including the eyelids.

What Is an Eyelid Tumour?

A tumour in the eyelid is like a tumour in any other part of the body, but it forms on the upper or lower eyelids. It may be a benign eyelid tumour (non-invasive) or a malignant eyelid tumour (invasive).

The eyelids are one of the most common sites for non-melanoma skin cancers that account for 95 per cent of eyelid tumours. 

Symptoms of Eyelid Tumour

Some common eyelid tumour symptoms include:

• Lesions: Lumps or lesions on or under the skin of the eyelids may appear prominently.

• Eye skin changes: Scaling or crusting of skin can be seen and felt in case of advanced-stage tumours. 

• Loss of eyelashes: Loss of eyelashes may be experienced if the tumour is located near eyelashes. 

Diagnosis

Early diagnosis and treatment of eyelid tumours are extremely important. They may not only damage vision but can also spread. Ophthalmologists and other skilled physicians can precisely diagnose and determine the progression of the tumour. And if a child shows symptoms of an eyelid tumour, the diagnostic work takes place with techniques designed to be child-friendly.

Eyelid Tumour Vs Chalazion

Don’t confuse an eyelid tumour with a chalazion. A chalazion is a lump in the upper or lower eyelid caused by obstruction and inflammation of an oil gland. It is not cancerous and it does not cause permanent changes in the vision. 

Treatment of an Eyelid Tumour 

There are multiple ways to treat eyelid tumours, depending on their size and severity. Benign tumours usually don’t require active treatments, but must be monitored for changes. If they interfere with vision, they can be surgically removed.

In case of severe malignant eyelid tumours where cancer is found, treatment methods include:

• Laser treatments: A method where a focused beam of light destroys cancer cells.
  
• Eyelid tumour excision: Surgical excision, i.e. removal of the tumour with surgery.
  
• Cryotherapy: The use of a cold metal probe to destroy cancer cells.
  
• Radiation: Killing of cancer cells with high-powered X-ray beams directed to the site of the tumour.

Once malignant tumours are completely removed, the eyelid is repaired using plastic surgery techniques, or even topical immunotherapy or chemotherapy agents depending on the severity of the tumour. 

If you feel that you or your dear ones are experiencing symptoms of an eyelid tumour, don’t delay to avail a consultation to properly treat the condition and vision problems that may have occurred due to it. The ophthalmologists at Prasad Netralaya in Mangalore and Udupi are specially trained to give you the best ophthalmic care. Call us at +91 9513596565 or book an appointment if you wish to visit in person. You can also book a teleconsultation.