Blepharoptosis revealing a metastatic renal cell carcinoma: A rare case report

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is a relatively rare malignancy often discovered incidentally. Approximately 15 % of cases are metastatic at diagnosis, commonly affecting the lungs, bones, lymph nodes, and liver. We present an exceptional case of RCC metastasizing to the eyelid. A 67-year-old female with no prior cancer history exhibited rapidly progressing left blepharoptosis. Examination revealed a painless, solid eyelid mass. Immunohistochemistry of the eyelid mass biopsy identified a carcinoma potentially of renal origin. A thorax, abdomen, and pelvis CT scan confirmed the presence of a right renal mass. Following a multidisciplinary discussion, we decided to proceed with an upfront cytoreductive nephrectomy and surgical excision of the eyelid metastasis. Eyelid metastasis revealing a renal cell carcinoma is exceedingly rare. Immunohistochemistry plays a pivotal role in detecting primary renal tumors. Prognostic models, particularly the IMDC, guide therapeutic decisions. In the era of immune checkpoint inhibitors, cytoreductive nephrectomy remains a safe option for well-selected patients with favorable risk mRCC. Recognizing unusual metastatic sites of RCC is vital due to its asymptomatic nature and the potential impact of delayed diagnosis on prognosis. Immunohistochemistry plays a critical role in diagnosis. Multidisciplinary tumor board discussions are essential for tailored management of favorable risk mRCC patients. •Initial eyelid metastasis in renal cell carcinoma is a rare occurrence.•Immunohistochemistry and radiologic assessments are the key tools for identifying unknown primary tumors.•Prognostic models like IMDC help guide therapeutic decisions in metastatic RCC.•Multidisciplinary tumor board discussions play a crucial role in tailoring management for mRCC.•In the era of immune checkpoint inhibitors, the application of cytoreductive nephrectomy is reserved for carefully selected mRCC patients.