Meibomian Gland Infarction of the Eyelid Mimicking a Tumor: A Case Report

This report describes a rare case of a keratinized eyelid mass associated with meibomian gland infarction arising from the lower eyelid. An 84-year-old man presented with a three-month history of swelling along the medial margin of the left lower eyelid, which had rapidly enlarged and become tender during the two weeks prior to presentation. He had no history of ocular surgery, and examination revealed a firm, elastic mass that was surgically excised in the outpatient operating room. Histopathological evaluation showed no evidence of malignancy; rather, the lesion was covered by stratified squamous epithelium with melanin pigmentation, beneath which markedly dilated meibomian gland ducts were observed. The stroma contained abundant sebaceous material and keratinous debris, findings consistent with a keratinized lesion secondary to meibomian gland infarction. Because meibomian gland infarction can clinically mimic malignant eyelid tumors or chalazia, careful differential diagnosis is required. This case highlights an uncommon presentation characterized by rapid enlargement and distinctive keratinized pathology.