Characterizing Primary Signet-Ring Cell or Histiocytoid Carcinomas of the Eyelid

Skin tumors with a signet-ring morphology are most frequently found on the eyelid and in the axilla. Their origins and behaviors are various. Researchers reviewed the cases of five patients (median age, 72; 4 men) with primary signet-ring cell or histiocytoid carcinomas of the eyelid to characterize the clinicopathologic findings.

Most of the patients presented with a poorly circumscribed erythematous swelling or thickening of the eyelid and received diagnoses of chalazion or chronic blepharoconjunctivitis. Histopathologic exam revealed signet-ring cells or histiocytoid epithelial cells arranged in an Indian file growth pattern dissecting the dermal collagen fibers. These cells were positive for carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), epithelial mem…