Mixed tumour of the lacrimal gland

Abstract

Lacrimal gland tumours constitute about a fourth of the comparatively rare orbital tumours. Varying percentage incidence has been recorded by different authors. (Birch Hirschfeld 30%, Salter 25%, Godtfredsen, 1948. 2000). Of these mixed tumours of the lacrimal gland are very rare and only a few cases are recorded in the literature. These tumours are more often seen in the large salivary glands and rarely seen in the other mucous glands of the oral region and palate. Willis, 1953, has not encountered a single case in his 48 recorded cases of mixed tumors. They may occur at any age and any sex and usually the history extends to over 2 years. The histological picture varies markedly and as such variety of names have been given to these tumours in the older days. But now it has been proved that the origin of these tumours is purely ectodermal or epithelial in nature and due to degenerative changes a pleomorphic appearance is seen. The signs and symptoms produced by these tumours are varying. Godtfredsen (1948), in his 52 varified orbital tumours has encountered only 10 mixed tumours and in 6 of his cases, exophthalmos was a predominantly initial symptom and only 2 cases had visual impairment. Ptosis, choked disc, bone destruction, metastases in cervical lymph nodes were also noticed in some of his cases. Prognosis in these cases is always good though recurrences and metastases have been noticed in some of the cases. We have encountered for the first time a mixed tumour of the lacrimal gland and it is recorded below for its rarity.