Cutaneous angiosarcoma with eyelid involvement

Abstract

Purpose: To report a clinicopathologic correlation of angiosarcoma affecting the eyelid skin.

Methods: An 82-year-old man developed multiple bruise-like maculopapular lesions, subcutaneous nodules, and diffuse edema over his scalp, face, and eyelids. Biopsy disclosed angiosarcoma, and the patient was treated with wide-field external beam radiotherapy (5,000 cGy).

Results: He responded to radiotherapy with partial regression of the tumor. Twelve months later, he developed extensive lymphedema secondary to the residual tumor. He was also found to have parotid gland and bone metastases, treated with radiotherapy. The patient died of widespread bone metastases 3 months later.

Conclusions: Angiosarcoma is a rare skin tumor that has a poor prognosis despite treatment. It should be considered in the differential diagnosis of eyelid tumors and edema because it may affect only the central portion of the face.