Lacrimal gland: non‐neoplastic and neoplastic lesions in Denmark 1974‐2007

Abstract

Abstract Purpose To evaluate patient characteristics and incidence of lacrimal gland lesions in Denmark during the period 1974‐2007. Methods All biopsied/surgically removed lacrimal gland lesions collected by the Danish pathological departments during the period 1974‐2007 were identified by SNOMED codes. In each case age, gender, symptoms, clinical findings, treatment and follow‐up were registered. All tumours were re‐classified according to latest guidelines from WHO. Results 229 lacrimal gland lesions from 209 patients were identified during the 34‐year period. In the study period 7 cases/year were registered (1.3 cases/million/year). Non‐neoplastic lesions predominated with a total of 114 (50 %) with the most frequent being inflammation 63 (55%), normal lacrimal gland tissue 28 (25%) and dacryops 23 (20%). Benign tumours comprised a total of 45 (20%) with the most frequent tumour being pleomorphic adenoma 31 (69%). Malignant tumours constituted a total of 70 (31%). 52 (74%) of these were primary tumours, 9 (13%) were secondary invading tumours, 8 (11%) were local recurrences and 1 (1%) was a distant metastasis. Primary malignant tumours comprised malignant lymphoma 25 (48%) and malignant epithelial tumours 27 (52%). The most frequent malignant tumour was adenoid cystic carcinoma comprising 14 (27%) of the primary malignant tumours. Conclusion Lacrimal gland lesions are rare and primarily benign. Treatment of malignant lacrimal gland tumours should be considered a specialist treatment.