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What could be responsible for this man's periorbital lesion?

David L. Kaplan, MD—Series Editor

A 62-year-old man presented for evaluation of a crusted lesion on the lateral lower right eyelid. It was asymptomatic and had been present for a few months. He was otherwise healthy.

What could be responsible for this man's periorbital lesion?

  1. Actinic keratosis
  2. Basal cell carcinoma
  3. Squamous cell carcinoma
  4. Seborrheic dermatitis
  5. Rosacea blepharitis

Answer on next page

Answer: Actinic keratosis

This lesion was an actinic keratosis. There was no underlying induration, which would have suggested the possibility of a basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma. This lesion can be treated with cryosurgery (usually applied with a cotton-tipped swab when this close to the eyeball) or a topical modality such as fluorouracil, imiquimod, or diclofenac. Seborrheic dermatitis usually is scaly rather than crusted. Rosacea blepharitis affects the eyelid margin, unlike what is seen here.