Merkel cell carcinoma masquerading as a chalazion.
METHODS
A 62-year-old woman presented with a large rapidly growing violaceous mass initially diagnosed as a chalazion. Histopathologic examination disclosed Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). Radiotherapy was not tolerated. Despite chemotherapy, she succumbed to widespread metastases 13 months later.


CONCLUSIONS
MCC must be included in the differential diagnosis of solitary eyelid nodules, requiring early and aggressive treatment.
Rawlings
Nigel G
NG
Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ottawa Eye Institute, Ottawa Hospital, Ontario, Canada.
Brownstein
Seymour
S
Jordan
David R
DR
D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor / Q000032:analysis; D015266:Carcinoma, Merkel Cell / Q000737:chemistry / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000601:surgery; D017043:Chalazion / Q000175:diagnosis*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005142:Eyelid Neoplasms / Q000737:chemistry / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000601:surgery; D017809:Fatal Outcome; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D009362:Neoplasm Metastasis; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000737:chemistry / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000601:surgery
D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor