Adenoid cystic carcinoma of the palpebral lobe of the lacrimal gland – case report and literature review

Abstract

Epithelial tumors of the lacrimal gland are rare and usually develop in the orbital lobe. We report the exceedingly rare occurrence of a primary adenoid cystic carcinoma in the palpebral lobe of the lacrimal gland. A 26-year-old female was referred for evaluation of a gradually enlarging mass in the lateral upper eyelid, previously diagnosed as a chalazion. Computed tomography revealed a heterogeneous round lesion anterior to the orbital rim. Excisional biopsy was compatible with an adenoid cystic carcinoma. After excluding distant metastasis, and as the patient refused adjuvant radiotherapy, a second surgical procedure, with wide local excision, was indicated. Follow-up showed no recurrence. This case highlights the importance of performing a thorough clinical examination when diagnosing any lateral upper eyelid mass. A high index of suspicion for malignant tumors of the lacrimal gland should always be maintained, and a complete excision with histological analysis should be preferred whenever possible.

Interdisziplinäre Therapie der Erkrankungen der Orbita

“…Die malignen Tumoren der Tränendrüsen zeichnen sich klinisch durch eine langsam progrediente einseitige Raumforderung im Bereich des lateralen oberen Lidbereiches aus [353]. In einigen Fällen findet sich eine Infiltration der Lidhaut, gelegentlich mit Fistelbil-dung.…”