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Conjunctival mycosis masquerading as melanoma
Stephen J Laquis1, Matthew W Wilson, Barrett G Haik
1Department of Ophthalmology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, USA.
American Journal of Ophthalmology
|July 4, 2002
Summary
A rare fungal infection mimicked conjunctival melanoma in a patient. Biopsy confirmed fungi, not cancer, highlighting the importance of considering infections in pigmented conjunctival lesions.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Mycology
Background:
- Pigmented lesions of the conjunctiva can present diagnostic challenges.
- Conjunctival melanoma is a significant concern for pigmented lesions.
Observation:
- A 75-year-old male presented with a deeply pigmented conjunctival lesion resembling melanoma.
- The lesion had been present for three months at the limbus of the right eye.
Findings:
- Surgical excision of the lesion was performed.
- Histopathological examination revealed fungal elements, excluding malignancy.
- The patient's lesion was diagnosed as a fungal infection.
Implications:
- Fungal infections should be considered in the differential diagnosis of pigmented conjunctival lesions.
- This case underscores the importance of biopsy for accurate diagnosis of unusual conjunctival masses.