Sebaceous Carcinoma

Sebaceous Gland Carcinoma

Overview

Sebaceous carcinoma is a rare, aggressive malignant tumor arising from the sebaceous (oil) glands of the skin. It most commonly occurs on the eyelid, where it can mimic benign conditions such as chalazion or blepharitis, leading to delayed diagnosis. It can also occur on the head, neck, and trunk. Early detection is critical as it has the potential to metastasize.

Key Symptoms

  • Firm, painless, slowly growing nodule, most often on the upper eyelid
  • Yellow or skin-colored papule or nodule that may resemble a chalazion or stye
  • Loss of eyelashes in the area of the tumor (madarosis)
  • Unilateral, chronic, treatment-resistant blepharitis or conjunctivitis
  • Thickening of the eyelid or a mass that recurs after excision
  • Extraocular lesions present as pink or yellowish nodules on the head, neck, or trunk

Affected Areas

Upper eyelid (most common), Lower eyelid, Head, Neck, Trunk

Care Instructions

  1. See an ophthalmologist or dermatologist promptly for any persistent eyelid nodule that does not respond to treatment.
  2. Biopsy with special staining (Oil Red O on fresh tissue) is essential for diagnosis.
  3. Mohs micrographic surgery or wide local excision is the preferred treatment.
  4. Sentinel lymph node biopsy may be recommended to assess for metastasis.
  5. Regular follow-up with clinical exams is critical due to risk of recurrence and metastasis.
  6. Consider screening for Muir-Torre syndrome if sebaceous carcinoma occurs with other internal malignancies.

Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment.

Prevalence: Rare; accounts for approximately 1-5% of eyelid malignancies