Lacrimal Gland Tumor its Causative Factors and Diagnosis

Vincent Amoako-Arhen^*
*Correspondence: Dr. Vincent Amoako-Arhen, Department of Cancer, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana, Email:

About the Study

The lacrimal glands, which are positioned above and to the side of the eye, release tears. When the cells of the lacrimal gland alter and develop uncontrolled, they create a lump known as a tumor. A tumor might be malignant or noncancerous. A malignant tumor can develop and spread to other parts of the body. It is crucial to realize that figures on lacrimal gland tumor survival rates are estimates. The estimate is based on yearly data from persons in the United States who have this malignancy.

Types of Lacrimal Gland Tumor

Benign mixed epithelial tumors: A benign mixed epithelial tumor is a noncancerous tumor that develops if left untreated but does not spread to other parts of the body.

Lymphoma: Lymphoma may affect a variety of ocular structures. The conjunctiva and lacrimal glands, on the other hand, are the most frequent. The conjunctiva is the mucous membrane that lines the inner surfaces of the eyes.

The following symptoms or indicators may be experienced by people who have a lacrimal gland tumor. People who have a lacrimal gland tumor may not exhibit any of these symptoms

• Vision issues, such as fuzzy vision

• A heaviness of the eyelid or a mass that can be felt on the eyelid

• Swelling around the eye

• Double vision

Risk factors

A risk factor is something that enhances the likelihood of a person having a tumor. Although risk factors commonly impact tumor formation, the vast majority do not directly cause a tumor. A person's chance of acquiring a lacrimal gland tumor may be increased by the following factors:

Age: People in their 30s are more likely to develop a lacrimal gland tumor.

A family history of lymphoma: People with a history of lymphoma are more likely to acquire periocular (around the eye) lymphoma.

Partial removal of a prior benign tumor: If a noncancerous lacrimal gland tumor is not entirely removed, there is a greater chance of a malignant lacrimal gland tumor developing. As a result, persons undergoing this sort of surgery should have a thorough post-operative checkup.

Diagnosis

If biopsy is not possible, the doctor may recommend alternative tests to aid in the diagnosis. Imaging tests may be performed to determine whether cancer has not spread.

Biopsy: A biopsy is the removal of a microscopic sample of tissue for analysis. A pathologist examines the material taken during the biopsy. A pathologist is a medical expert who specializes in interpreting laboratory tests and evaluating cells, tissues and organs to diagnose disease.

The sort of biopsy required is determined by the location of the tumor: The surgeon performs an incisional biopsy by cutting into the tumor and removing a sample of tissue. An excisional biopsy, which is more usually done for benign mixed epithelial tumors, involves the surgeon removing the whole tumor.

A Computed Tomography (CT and CAT scan): A CT scan uses an x-ray scanner to generate a three-dimensional image inside of the body. A computer then combines these pictures to provide a thorough cross-sectional depiction of any anomalies or malignancies. To improve picture detail, a specific term known as a contrast medium is sometimes administered before the scan.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): An MRI produces detailed pictures of the body by using magnetic fields rather than x-rays. MRI may also be used to determine the size of a tumor. A particular dye known as before the scan, a contrast material is used to obtain a crisper image.