Noncancerous (benign) and cancerous (malignant) growths can form on the eyelids. One of the most common types of benign tumor is xanthelasma, a yellow-white, flat growth that consists of fatty material. Because xanthelasmas may indicate elevated cholesterol levels, especially in young people, a doctor may check the person's cholesterol level by taking a blood sample. Xanthelasmas need not be removed unless their appearance becomes bothersome.

Xanthelasmas

Basal Cell Carcinoma of the Eye

Basal cell carcinoma (see Skin Cancers: Squamous Cell Carcinoma) is a type of skin cancer that frequently occurs at the eyelid margins, at the inner corner of the eyes, and on the upper cheeks. A doctor bases the diagnosis on the results of a biopsy (removal of a tissue sample for examination under a microscope). The growth is usually removed surgically.

Did You Know... A growth on the eyelid that persists for weeks should be removed and examined under a microscope (biopsied) to exclude cancer.

Although less common, squamous cell carcinoma (see Skin Cancers: Squamous Cell Carcinoma), meibomian gland carcinoma (cancer of glands in the eyelid), and melanomas (see Skin Cancers: Melanoma), all cancerous growths, can develop on the eyelid. If a growth on the eyelid does not disappear after several weeks, a doctor may perform a biopsy. The growth is usually removed surgically. Eyelid tumors sometimes mimic other eye disorders (such as blepharitis and chalazion), so a doctor usually biopsies any growths that do not respond to initial treatments.

Last full review/revision November 2007 by James Garrity, MD