Primary Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma of the Lacrimal Gland: A Case Report and Surgical Resolution
Author: Maria Florencia Montefinal Insua
Base Hospital / Institution: Hospital El Cruce
ePoster presentation
Abstract ID: 24-297
Purpose
To present a case of primary mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) of the lacrimal gland in a 48-year-old woman and describe its surgical resolution.
Methods
A case report of a 48-year-old woman admitted to Hospital El Cruce in 2023.
Results
A 48-year-old woman presented with a large mass in her left orbit, causing globe displacement. The 2×3 cm painful lesion protruded, leading to low visual acuity, conjunctival injection, corneal impressions, and restricted eye movement. Fundus exam showed edema and hemorrhages. CT revealed a 46 x 63 x 47 mm mass, reshaping the orbit. Biopsy confirmed mucoepidermoid adenocarcinoma. She underwent orbital exenteration with a temporalis muscle flap and thigh skin graft was performed. Despite complications like myiasis and wound dehiscence, she hadn’t received radiotherapy due to healthcare delays. This highlights challenges in timely treatment access.
Conclusion
Epithelial tumors of the lacrimal gland are uncommon, comprising only 7% of all orbital tumors. Mucoepidermoid carcinoma is exceedingly rare in the lacrimal gland but represents the most common primary carcinoma of the salivary glands. Due to the rarity of this tumor in the lacrimal gland, treatment guidelines are lacking.MEC is a rare occurrence with a high incidence of recurrence within 2 to 3 years of treatment. Delay in treatment could adversely affect survival. Accurate histopathological assessment, appropriate classification, adequate treatment of MEC, and long-term follow-up in these patients for a minimum period of 5 years would likely improve survival rates.
Additional Authors
| First name | Last name | Base Hospital / Institution |
|---|---|---|
| Jorge Ezequiel | Avila | Hospital El Cruce |
| Leonardo | Piraino | Hospital El Cruce |
