Lacrimal gland tumors in a medical center.

Between 1971-2001, there were 9 cases of lacrimal gland tumors in the hospital medical records, 3 adenocystic carcinomas, 1 adenosquamous, 3 benign mixed tumors and 2 malignant mixed tumors. Only 4 had complete clinical histories: 1 benign mixed tumor and 3 adenocystic carcinomas. Among the 4 patients, 3 of them had the tumors removed by transeptal techniques and only I had complete removal of the tumor in a single mass. The histopathology proved to be a benign mixed tumor and was completely cured. The other 2 were adenocystic carcinomas which could not be completely removed, resulting in recurrences of the tumors and distant metastases. Both of them died from intracranial extensions. In 1 case of adenocystic carcinoma, the tumor was removed easier by the lateral orbitotomy technique. The nature of this kind of tumor must be known for accurate diagnosis, proper plan of the management and prognosis of the patient.