Unspecific redness of the eyelid--two malignant tumours

Abstract

Background: Chronic, non- or little pigmented reddish or brownish lesions on the lid margin and the surrounding skin are frequently underestimated and thus carry a clear risk of malignancy.

History and signs: A 61-year-old lady was referred with a chronic, reddish lesion in the medial third of the left lower lid after a topical therapy over a period of 4 months had not improved the situation. She noticed the lesion for the first time 10 previously. Recurrent trichiasis and a slight ulceration had developed during the last year.

Therapy and outcome: After an unclear result of the biopsy (2)/ (3) of the left lower lid were removed because of atypical cells ascending into the epidermis. A superficial spreading melanoma 0.4 mm depth in the Breslow classification was detected and right next to it a superficial basal cell carcinoma. The lid defect was reconstructed with a tarsoconjunctival flap and a free full thickness skin graft as described by Hughes.

Conclusion: Chronic redness at or around the lid margin which does not respond to therapy should be biopsied as malignant tumours may well be hidden behind it.