Solitary metastasis from an occult renal cell carcinoma presenting as a primary lacrimal gland tumour

Abstract

A case of a solitary metastasis from a previously undiagnosed renal cell carcinoma, presenting clinically and radiologically as a primary lacrimal gland tumour, is reported. Orbital metastases are uncommon and those mimicking a primary lacrimal gland neoplasm rare. This report emphasizes that metastatic tumour should always be considered in the differential diagnosis of an orbital mass. It also illustrates certain features typical of renal cell carcinoma metastasizing to the orbit.

Key Words:

• lacrimal gland tumour
• metastatic carcinoma
• kidney
• histopathology