Sometimes you hardly notice it. It might be a tiny discoloration on the eyelid, or the beginnings of a small lump or bump. Yet it is precisely these kinds of symptoms that can be signs of something serious, such as a tumor. There are benign and malignant types of tumor in the eyelid area. Eyelid tumors are the most common tumors in ophthalmology, and they mainly affect people aged 60 and over. According to the German Cancer Society, they are increasingly affecting young people too, particularly those who are frequently exposed to sunlight (UV rays).
What exactly is an eyelid tumor?
Eyelid tumors are growths on the skin and can appear directly on the upper or lower eyelid. They can change and develop into larger tumors, or even grow into the eye, which in the worst case can lead to blindness.
Benign tumors include warts (papillomas) or fatty deposits, which can be easily removed. The most common malignant tumor of the eyelid is basal cell carcinoma, also known as a basal cell carcinoma for short. It can affect anyone and should be taken seriously. Seeing a doctor early on can prevent more serious complications.
Typical symptoms:
- Loss of eyelashes
- Itching of the eyelid
- Discoloration of the skin on the eyelid
- Changes in the skin
- Palpable lump, noticeable nodule
- Ointments, drops and other medicines do not help
At the very latest when your eyelashes start to fall out, urgent action is required. The worst thing you can do is simply ignore these symptoms and play them down. Any change in or around the eye should be investigated. After all, we are talking about your most important sensory organ.
University Professor Dr Ludwig Heindl from Cologne University Hospital also specializes in eye health. As head of the Department of Ophthalmic Oncology and Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery, Prof. Heindl treats complex eye conditions in patients, such as diseases of the tear ducts, as well as conjunctival tumors, orbital tumors, ocular melanomas, diseases of the ocular surface and eyelid tumors. Prof. Dr Heindl explains below exactly what needs to be considered in the case of a malignant tumor on the eyelid.
Prof. Heindl, why does the sun play such a crucial role in the development of eyelid tumors?
Prof. Heindl: It is now generally accepted, and scientific studies have confirmed this, that intense sun exposure (UV radiation) can cause severe damage to the skin and trigger cancer. The face, and the eyes in particular, are often poorly protected and are therefore especially at risk.
We can apply sun cream to our skin. But what about our eyes?
Prof. Heindl: The best way to protect our eyes is with sunglasses, which are not just a stylish summer accessory but, above all, filter out UV radiation. It is important to ensure the glasses are of high quality. UV radiation is dangerous in two ways: not only can it cause eye tumors, but it can also increase the risk of pterygium. In this type of tumor, the vascular conjunctiva grows over the otherwise clear, avascular cornea of the eye.
If you have noticed something unusual, what exactly should you do next?
Prof. Heindl: Firstly, an ophthalmologist should take a biopsy (tissue sample) to determine exactly what it is. Ultrasound and CT scans can also provide further important clues as to whether it is a tumor. If the histological examination confirms that it is malignant – in 90% of cases it is a basal cell carcinoma – it should then be removed by an ophthalmic plastic surgeon.
It is often the case that people are reluctant to have their eyes treated or delay treatment for as long as possible. Have you experienced this too? What happens in the worst-case scenario?
Prof. Heindl: Unfortunately, yes. Many people downplay such an eye condition. They do not consider it necessary to have their eye examined. Some prefer to wait and see, hoping for a spontaneous recovery. Others are very afraid of surgery on the eye. They fear being disfigured after the operation or losing their sight. Although the malignant eyelid tumor does not metastasise, it can affect other sensory organs. It can grow and even cause blindness. The rule is: the earlier the tumor is removed, the better the chances of recovery.
Is a complete cure possible, or should one expect after-effects?
Prof. Heindl: With timely surgery, the prognosis for a complete cure of the eyelid tumor is good. Nevertheless, follow-up examinations are important, particularly in the first two years. Sometimes recurrences or other skin changes can occur, which we need to monitor.
And what is your personal advice to prevent eyelid tumors from developing in the first place?
Prof. Heindl: To this day, we cannot say with 100% certainty what causes an eyelid tumor. However, sun exposure does play a significant role in prevention. A high percentage of eyelid tumors are linked to the intensity of sun exposure. The more frequently and for longer you are exposed to UV radiation, the greater the risk of developing a malignant eyelid tumor. This is why basal cell carcinoma is increasingly affecting younger people, who often do not think about sun protection.
Dear Professor Heindl, sunglasses have once again proven their usefulness. Thank you very much for this interview!
Have you noticed something suspicious with your eye and would like to have it checked by an eye specialist? Take this opportunity to contact Prof. Heindl directly. Visit his doctor profile in the Leading Medicine Guide and contact him today.
LH235AT, LMG19 / Image source: (c) Elroi, (c) Robert Przybysz, (c) coldwaterman, (c) Anna Om, (c) pridannikov – Adobe Stock.
