Specialists of the SI“Filatov Institute of Eye Diseases and Tissue Therapy of NAMS of Ukraine” presented the results of a large-scale study devoted to the clinical features, differential diagnosis, and treatment of epithelial tumors of the lacrimal gland. The study was based on the analysis of data from 110 patients with various forms of lacrimal gland neoplasms.

Tumors of the Lacrimal Gland are the only true epithelial neoplasms arising within the orbit. According to scientific literature, their incidence accounts for 7–13% of all orbital tumors.Particular attention to this pathology is attributed to its high risk of recurrence and metastasis, especially within the first three years after treatment.

The study established the frequency distribution of epithelial tumors of the lacrimal gland. The most common lesions were pleomorphic adenoma (38%), adenocarcinoma (30%), and adenoid cystic carcinoma (16%). Cases of carcinoma arising in pleomorphic adenoma, as well as mucoepidermoid tumors, myxomas, and oncocytomas, were also identified.

Researchers at the Institute identified a characteristic group of clinical signs that may indicate lacrimal gland involvement, including:
• a neoplasm in the superolateral orbit;
• displacement of the bulb of the eye  inferiorly and nasally;
• restricted elevation and abduction of the eye;
• exophthalmos;
• ptosis and conjunctival hyperemia.

An important part of the study was the identification of computed tomography criteria used to distinguish between benign and malignant lesions. Benign tumors are characterized by well-defined contours and a rounded shape, whereas malignant lesions demonstrate irregular borders, invasion into surrounding tissues, and involvement of the orbital osseous structures. The diagnostic accuracy of this approach exceeds 81%.

The study also identified histomorphological features associated with a high risk of recurrence and an unfavorable disease prognosis. Risk factors include large tumor size, involvement of osseous structures, male sex, age over 45 years, and certain histological neoplasm types of  the tumor.

The study results have important practical significance for the timely detection of  tumors of the lacrimal gland, selection of optimal treatment strategies, and prediction of disease course.

Author of the study: Svitlana Polyakova — Doctor of Medical Sciences, Senior Researcher at the Department of Ophthalmic Oncology, ophthalmologist of the highest qualification category.