Sebaceous Gland Carcinoma

Sebaceous gland carcinoma (SGC) is a malignant neoplasm capable of aggressive local behavior and metastasis to regional lymph nodes and distant organs. It originates from cells of the sebaceous glands and occurs most often in the periorbital area, usually in the eyelid. It is considered among the most lethal of all ocular adnexal tumors. The majority of patients with SGC are older individuals. Important risk factors include ocular or facial irradiation for the treatment of retinoblastoma, acne, cutaneous hemangioma, and eczema. Because of its variable clinical presentation, biopsy and histological examination are required for an accurate diagnosis. The main treatment modality is surgical excision, with microscopic monitoring of the margins or Mohs’ microsurgery or map biopsy. The treatment of choice for secondary orbital invasion is orbital exenteration.