What should you know about melanoma under eyelid?

Melanoma may show as a dark, uneven, or multicoloured area on eyelid skin. A new mark, enlargement, irregular edge, bleeding, crusting, or loss of nearby lashes deserves attention. Other eyelid problems, including irritation, a blocked gland, a benign mole, or post-inflammatory pigment, can have overlapping features.

Because eyelid tissue is thin and close to the eye, examination and any biopsy need careful planning. A laboratory study of sampled tissue is what establishes the diagnosis; it also helps guide how much tissue needs treatment.

Make a prompt appointment and describe when the change began, whether it is on the upper or lower lid, and whether lashes have fallen out. Do not pull at the area or use cosmetic removers, steroid creams, acids, or wart products unless prescribed. A dated close-up photograph can help document progression.

Confirmed melanoma may be managed with planned excision or other skin cancer surgery. Depending on the pathology and examination, clinicians may discuss sentinel lymph node biopsy, scans, or immunotherapy.

Arrange prompt review for a changing eyelid spot, recurrent bleeding, persistent crusting, a growing lump, or lashes disappearing from the affected area. Seek urgent help for severe eye pain, sudden vision change, rapidly increasing swelling, or inability to close the eye.

Ask whether an ophthalmologist should join the assessment, whether the lesion needs biopsy, how the eyelid will be protected during treatment, and what symptoms should trigger urgent review. If melanoma is confirmed, ask how margins, lymph nodes, reconstruction, and follow-up will be handled.