title: Merkel cell tumor of the eyelid: a review and report of an unusual case.
abstract: We describe a case of a Merkel cell tumor of the eyelid that manifested as a recurrent chalazion. This tumor had the classic characteristics of a Merkel cell neoplasm by light microscopy. Electron microscopy showed dense-core neurosecretory granules and perinuclear microfilaments consistent with the diagnosis. Because a Merkel cell tumor may manifest as a chalazion, pathologic evaluation of all atypical chalazia is essential. Merkel cell tumors are malignant, and they must be treated aggressively to minimize recurrence or metastasis.
authors.affiliation: Department of Ophthalmology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City.
authors.forename: N
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Mamalis
authors.forename: R D
authors.initials: RD
authors.lastname: Medlock
authors.forename: J B
authors.initials: JB
authors.lastname: Holds
authors.forename: R L
authors.initials: RL
authors.lastname: Anderson
authors.forename: A S
authors.initials: AS
authors.lastname: Crandall
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D001706:Biopsy; D015266:Carcinoma, Merkel Cell / Q000473:pathology* / Q000532:radiotherapy / Q000601:surgery; D005122:Exudates and Transudates / Q000378:metabolism; D005142:Eyelid Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology* / Q000532:radiotherapy / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male