Understanding Sebaceous Carcinoma: A Guide for Patients

Sebaceous carcinoma (SC) is a rare but aggressive cancer that starts in the skin’s oil glands, most often around the eyelids or in the head and neck region, though it can occur anywhere sebaceous glands exist. It usually appears as a painless bump, skin thickening, or a sore that repeatedly scabs and heals. Lesions are often yellow, orange, or red and may mimic other eye or skin conditions, delaying diagnosis. Risk factors include older age, UV exposure, weakened immunity, prior head/neck radiation, and genetic conditions like Muir-Torre syndrome. Diagnosis requires a biopsy, with possible imaging or lymph node testing depending on spread. Surgery—either wide local excision or Mohs micrographic surgery—is the main treatment, with Mohs offering lower recurrence rates. Radiation is an option if surgery isn’t possible. Since up to 1 in 4 cases can return or spread, lifelong dermatology follow-up, skin self-checks, and sun protection are essential.

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