Carcinoma of the skin of the eyelids.

Carcinomas of the skin of the eyelids constitute a difficult therapeutic problem in which it is mandatory not only to achieve the complete destruction of the tumor, but also to provide a satisfactory esthetic and functional result, without damaging any of the delicate structures of the eyelid or eyeball, especially the lens. Very small lesions involving the skin of the eyelid, away from its free margin or commissures, can be treated successfully by simple excision; the procedure is an expeditious one, done with local anesthesia; the primary healing of the wound is rapid. Although the skilled plastic surgeon can remove larger lesions in more unfavorable locations, an extensive procedure is generally required in which a free dermic or epidermic graft or pedicle flaps would be necessary in order to obtain a good cosmetic and functional result.2,6,11Surgical treatment is indicated in the few cases of failure with roentgenotherapy. Radium