Adenoid cystic carcinoma of lacrimal gland: A case report.

Adenoid cystic carcinoma is a rare tumour that represents less than 2% of all malignant tumours of the head and neck. It is primarily a tumour of adulthood with a peak incidence defined in the fourth to sixth decade of life. The onset of development is usually marked by exophthalmos or ptosis. Pain is frequent: a sign of carcinomatous involvement especially if it is associated with hypoaesthesia in the territory of the frontal nerve. The duration of symptoms is generally less than 6 months. The five histological patterns are: Basaloid (worst prognosis), sclerosing, cribriform, tubular and comedo carcinoma. We report a case of 35 year old male patient having left eye proptosis with upper lid ptosis and restricted eye movements diagnosed as having Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of the lacrimal gland on the basis of histopathological examination. We describe its features and aggressive treatment approach which ensures appropriate management.