Purpose: The distinction between benign and malignant cutaneous periocular lesions can be difficult, as the clinical history and appearance are often quite similar. When present, typical cutaneous changes are often helpful in distinguishing between benign and malignant neoplasms. However, when tumors lack characteristic epidermal change, histopathologic examination may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis. The authors present their experience in the evaluation and management of two patients with periocular basal cell carcinoma who were initially diagnosed as having benign cysts.
Methods: The case records for two patients with periocular basal cell carcinoma were reviewed. Preoperative and postoperative photographs were available for comparison in one case. For each patient, the medical history, clinical presentation, histology, and surgical outcome were reviewed.
Results: In each case, the periocular mass was initially diagnosed as a benign process. Histopathologic examination following excisional biopsy established the diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma in both patients. Following biopsy, residual tumor was removed by the Mohs micrographic technique. There were no surgical complications and no tumor recurrences during follow-up of one year and eight years.
Conclusions: Periocular basal cell carcinoma may mimic benign cystic lesions of the central face. Incorrect diagnosis may result in delayed or inappropriate therapy, or failure to submit seemingly benign lesions for histopathologic examination. Definitive treatment requires complete excision with histologic margin control.