Conjunctival squamous cell carcinoma in Tanzania

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Oncology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Conjunctival squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is a malignancy affecting the eye's surface.
• UV exposure and certain viral infections are known risk factors for cSCC.
• Understanding incidence trends and contributing factors is crucial for public health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate changes in the incidence of cSCC in Tanzania over a 22-year period (1976-1997).
• To investigate potential factors contributing to observed changes in cSCC rates.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of pathology records from north and central Tanzania (1976-1997).
• Medical record review for cSCC cases in the final two study years.
• Analysis of patient demographics, clinical history, and HIV status.

Main Results:

• A significant increase in cSCC incidence was observed in the last three years (1995-1997).
• The mean age of affected patients was 44.7 years.
• A high proportion (4/5) of tested patients were HIV-positive; many had a history of chronic conjunctival conditions.

Conclusions:

• Tanzania is experiencing an epidemic of aggressive cSCC, often in younger patients.
• The rise is strongly associated with HIV infection, compounded by UV exposure.
• Chronic conjunctival disease and human papillomavirus (HPV) may also play a role.