Diagnosis and treatment of malignant eyelid tumors

Background Malignant tumors of the eyelid are much less frequent than benign eyelid alterations. These are frequently incidental findings without symptoms which are often overlooked or misinterpreted by patients. Objective This article gives an overview of clinical aspects, diagnostics and treatment of the five most common malignant eyelid tumors and exemplarily explains the essential principles of evidence-based treatment of malignant eyelid tumors. Methods This narrative review was prepared based on a selective literature search. The depiction of the treatment of eyelid tumors is supported by illustrations of clinical cases. Results The medical history and inspection provide initial indications of malignancy. Every eyelid change suspected of being malignant should be examined histologically to confirm a diagnosis. By far the most common malignant eyelid tumor in Europe is basal cell carcinoma, which metastasizes only in exceptional cases. Squamous cell carcinomas, sebaceous adenocarcinomas, melanomas and Merkel cell carcinomas occur much less frequently. In these cases, potential metastasis in particular must be considered when making the diagnosis and staging has to be initiated. Surgical excision into healthy tissue with tumor-free margins is the gold standard for malignant eyelid tumors. Non-surgical adjuvant or neoadjuvant forms of evidence-based treatment can be initiated based on the individual case to minimize the risk of recurrence and metastasis. Conclusion It is essential to recognize eyelid changes at an early stage, to classify them correctly and to initiate the appropriate treatment. The interaction between the general condition and the personal needs of a patient as well as state of the art medicine are the keys to a good personalized treatment.