Eyelid Skin Tumours

Benign Tumours

Benign tumours are usually non-cancerous and do not invade surrounding tissues. They grow slowly and are generally not harmful. While they may still need to be monitored or removed for cosmetic or functional reasons, they do not pose a significant threat to a person's health. Examples of benign eyelid skin tumours include seborrheic keratosis and nevi (moles).

Malignant Tumours

Malignant tumours, also known as cancers, have the potential to invade surrounding tissues and can be harmful or even fatal if left untreated. Malignant skin tumours that commonly occur on the eyelid include:

1. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most common type of skin cancer in Australians and typically appears as a raised, pearly bump with visible blood vessels. It rarely spreads to other parts of the body.

2. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): SCC is another common skin cancer in Australians. It may appear as a scaly or crusty growth with a tendency to bleed. SCC has a higher chance of spreading if not treated promptly.

3. Sebaceous gland carcinoma: This is a rarer but more aggressive form of eyelid cancer that arises from the oil glands of the eyelids. It has a higher risk of spreading if not treated early.

4. Melanoma: Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can arise from pigment-producing cells (melanocytes). It is less common on the eyelid but can be more aggressive and have a higher risk of spreading.