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Pigmented conjunctival squamous cell carcinoma simulating a conjunctival melanoma
J A Shields1, C L Shields, R C Eagle
1Oncology Service, Wills Eye Hospital, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107, USA.
American Journal of Ophthalmology
|July 5, 2001
Summary
Pigmented conjunctival squamous cell carcinoma can mimic conjunctival melanoma. This case highlights the importance of histopathologic examination for accurate diagnosis of this rare ocular tumor.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Dermatopathology
Background:
- Conjunctival squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is a malignant epithelial tumor of the ocular surface.
- Melanoma is a common differential diagnosis for pigmented conjunctival lesions.
Observation:
- A 78-year-old male presented with a lightly pigmented conjunctival mass at the temporal limbus.
- The lesion's clinical appearance raised suspicion for both pigmented cSCC and conjunctival melanoma.
Findings:
- Histopathologic examination confirmed the diagnosis of pigmented conjunctival squamous cell carcinoma.
- The tumor exhibited malignant squamous cell characteristics with focal melanin pigmentation.
Implications:
- Rarely, pigmented cSCC can present with clinical features mimicking conjunctival melanoma.
- Accurate diagnosis relies on thorough clinicopathologic correlation to differentiate these entities.