Sarcomatous Carcinoma of the Orbit: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Abstract

Sarcomatous carcinomas (SCs) are rare tumours that contain malignant cells with epithelial and mesenchymal characteristics. SC rarely presents in the head and neck, and occurs even less often in the orbit. Only 8 cases of SCs located in the orbit or affecting the globe function have been described in the English literature. Here, we report a case of SC affecting the right orbit. SC is associated with a poor prognosis and advanced disease at presentation. Diagnosis is difficult, as histology often fails to definitively identify SC, necessitating a wide panel of molecular/immunological markers. Treatment options are generally aggressive but risky, and frequently yield poor results. Due to the rarity of SC, there has been little focus on the development of improved treatment options.