Jakarta, IO – Eyelid tumors are frequently underestimated, as it is difficult to recognize and generally show no clinical symptoms. However, if you don’t handle it as early as possible, it might grow, or even become cancerous. To find out whether or not you have a tumor, and whether it is benign or malignant, you need an anatomical pathology check by taking tissue samples and analyzing them (biopsy).
“Eyelid tumor is an abnormal cellular growth in the eyelid. These tumor cells generally appear in the surface tissue or skin of the eyelid. The affected area is exactly within the area generally covered by one’s glasses. We must be suspicious when a sty or nodule in our eye doesn’t get better. Don’t try to self-medicate if this happens! Consult an eye doctor immediately,” said Dr. dr. Angga Kartiwa, Sp.M(K), MKes., eye specialist and consultant from the Cicendo Eye Hospital in Bandung, in the “Eyelid Tumor” talk show held on Monday (22/08/2022).
Other than sties or nodules, we need to be alert when a beauty mark in the eyelid area suddenly changes in size. Eyelid tumors generally appear in the epidermis, the outermost layer, of the eyelid. Even though it is thin, the eyelid has layers that are connected to optical nerves and tear ducts. Eye tumor patients initially feel no symptoms. However, they may gradually suffer from discoloration of the eyelid, have more than one sty appear in the eyelid, or suffer a severe loss of their eyelashes.
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“We still don’t know for sure what causes eyelid tumors to appear. However, there are factors that are known to increase the risk of eyelid tumor: high frequency of UV radiation, a history of cancer in the family. Also avoid using cosmetics made out of suspicious ingredients, especially mercury,” Dr. Angga said.
Prevent eyelid tumor by protecting your eyelids from the sun, using sunglasses and sunscreens when you are outdoors, and stop tobacco and alcohol consumption. “There are other risk factors, including stress lack of sleep. Be constantly aware of your own condition: check your health regularly, including the condition of your eyes, once every six months,” Dr. Angga said. (est)