Eyelid lumps and bumps are common and usually benign, but occasionally represent skin cancer. Their appearance, texture and rate of growth help guide diagnosis.
Types of lesions
Chalazia and styes arise from blocked or infected glands, while papillomas and skin tags are soft, fleshy overgrowths. Pigmented, ulcerated or irregular lesions that change over time raise concern for malignancy.
- Persistent or recurrent lumps should be examined and sometimes biopsied
- Cysts and benign tumours can often be removed under local anaesthetic
- Localised tenderness and redness suggest infection
- Photographic documentation helps monitor evolving lesions
