“Strawberry-like” Mass in the Lacrimal Caruncle: Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Situ

Ozkul E., Mangan M. S., Mazmanoglu Atilman S., Turan Vural E.

Journal of Craniofacial Surgery, ss.1-3, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus) identifier identifier

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
  • Basım Tarihi: 2026
  • Doi Numarası: 10.1097/scs.0000000000012770
  • Dergi Adı: Journal of Craniofacial Surgery
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, MEDLINE
  • Sayfa Sayıları: ss.1-3
  • Anahtar Kelimeler: Caruncle, caruncle malignancy, squamous cell carcinoma in situ
  • İstanbul Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

We report a rare case of squamous cell carcinoma in situ (SCCIS) of the lacrimal caruncle in a 90-year-old male presenting with a strawberry-like mass. The lesion, unnoticed for 3 months, was surgically excised with tumor-free margins. Histopathological analysis confirmed full-thickness epithelial atypia without stromal invasion, consistent with SCCIS. Immunohistochemistry showed strong p16 expression and HPV positivity. No recurrence was observed at 6-month follow-up. Although SCCIS in the caruncle has been rarely documented, its distinct clinical appearance may facilitate early recognition. This case underscores the importance of considering malignancy in elderly patients with atypical caruncular lesions, as prompt surgical intervention can lead to favorable outcomes.