About Sebaceous Carcinoma Treatment Services:
A “stye” that doesn’t heal, keeps returning, or causes lash loss deserves more than another round of warm compresses. At Charleston Dermatology, our physicians and providers biopsy suspicious eyelid and skin lesions to establish the diagnosis.
Because sebaceous carcinoma can spread within the skin and to lymph nodes, prompt diagnosis and complete removal are the priorities, and we coordinate with ophthalmology and oncology specialists when the location calls for it.
Treatment plans are built around your diagnosis, with surgery—often Mohs micrographic surgery or wide excision—as the primary treatment, plus evaluation of nearby lymph nodes when appropriate. Caught early, sebaceous carcinoma is very treatable. Schedule a visit and get a definitive answer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is sebaceous carcinoma?
Sebaceous carcinoma is a cancer of the oil-producing (sebaceous) glands in the skin. About three-quarters of cases occur on the eyelids, where it may look like a firm, painless, slowly growing yellowish nodule, a recurring stye, or persistent eyelid irritation. It can also occur on the head, neck, and elsewhere.
What causes sebaceous carcinoma?
Most cases have no identifiable cause, though risk rises with age, prior radiation exposure, and a weakened immune system. Some cases are associated with Muir-Torre syndrome, an inherited condition that also raises the risk of internal cancers, so your provider may recommend additional screening after diagnosis.
How is sebaceous carcinoma treated?
Complete surgical removal is the foundation of treatment — Mohs surgery is often used, especially on the eyelids, to remove the tumor fully while sparing as much healthy tissue as possible. Depending on the tumor, lymph node evaluation or radiation may be recommended. Regular follow-up is essential because early detection of any recurrence dramatically improves outcomes.