Comprehensive management of a rare carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma of the lacrimal gland with a modified lateral orbitotomy access osteotomy. A case report.

BACKGROUND: Complete management of extraconal ocular tumors may require the joint efforts of a maxillofacial surgeon to provide access and an ophthalmic surgeon to completely excise the lesion. Pleomorphic adenoma is the most common benign tumor of the lacrimal glands, representing around 12% of the lacrimal fossa lesions. They may however undergo malignant changes. Carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma (CXPA), a type of malignant mixed tumor of the lacrimal gland has been rarely reported.

CASE REPORT: We report a case of CXPA of the lacrimal gland in a 35-year-old male. He was managed by a modified lateral orbitotomy access osteotomy with complete removal of the lesion and showed postoperative uneventful recovery.

DISCUSSION: Accurate clinical diagnosis of a neoplasm in the orbital cavity is important for correct therapeutic management. This paper emphasises on the comprehensive management of these lesions with a special emphasis on diagnosis and surgical technique.