SEBACEOUS GLAND HYPERPLASIA OF THE CARUNCLE

The caruncle is an ocular adnexal structure composed of both mucosal a nd epidermal elements. Consequently, a number of benign and malignant lesions of epithelial and supportive tissues may arise in this area. L esions of the caruncle are rarely reported, and their appropriate diag nosis and management may be uncertain. One such lesion is sebaceous gl and hyperplasia. Of all caruncular lesions that undergo excision, seba ceous gland hyperplasia is infrequently encountered. We have observed four cases of sebaceous gland hyperplasia of the caruncle over the las t 2 years. Our observations suggest that this lesion has a characteris tic onset, progression, and appearance, enabling diagnosis to be made on clinical examination alone. Excision is indicated only if there is an atypical presentation, a carcinoma is suspected, if mass effect cau ses discomfort or epiphora, or if cosmesis is an issue.