Benign mixed tumors arising in the palpebral lobe of the lacrimal gland.

The accurate clinical diagnosis of benign mixed tumors of the lacrimal gland is imperative for proper therapeutic management. Although benign mixed tumors of the orbital portion of the lacrimal gland have an established identity, those tumors arising in the palpebral lobe are unusual. Four patients with benign mixed tumors of the palpebral lobe are presented, emphasizing the confusion that exists in making the diagnosis. Palpebral lobe benign mixed tumors should be strongly considered in the differential diagnosis of upper outer eyelid masses. En bloc resection avoids the risk of tumor spillage, recurrence, and/or malignant transformation caused by preliminary biopsy or incomplete resection.