If left untreated, however, the lesion may in time invade deeper structures. Fortunately, metastasis is rare, and complete recovery is possible with proper therapy. The preferred course for most cases is surgery, with broad margins to ensure complete removal. Both of these modalities carry significant side effects, however, and neither is as effective as surgical intervention. However, this tumor does possess the capacity, over time, to cause significant local destruction, and must always be treated appropriately.
Early biopsy is often the key to diagnosis.
Biopsy all suspicious lid lesions which demonstrate irregular growth, changes in color or appearance, or purulent or bloody discharge to rule out cancer. You should refer confirmed malignancies promptly to an oculoplastics specialist or, if possible, an ocular oncologist.