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Conjunctival mascaroma masquerading as melanoma
Jerry A Shields1, Brian P Marr, Carol L Shields
1Oncology Service, Wills Eye Hospital, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA. jerry.shields@shieldsoncology.com
Cornea
|April 15, 2005
Summary
Mascara deposition can create a conjunctival mass that mimics melanoma. This case highlights conjunctival hyperkeratosis with foreign bodies, emphasizing the need for careful diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Dermatopathology
Background:
- Conjunctival masses require accurate diagnosis to differentiate benign conditions from malignancies like melanoma.
- Long-term cosmetic use, such as mascara, can lead to ocular surface deposition.
Observation:
- A 50-year-old woman presented with a conjunctival mass clinically suspicious for melanoma.
- The patient had a 20-year history of consistent mascara use.
Findings:
- Histopathology revealed conjunctival hyperkeratosis with keratin plaque and foreign material consistent with mascara deposition.
- Polarized light microscopy showed birefringence of the dark particles within the keratin plaque.
Implications:
- Mascara deposition can result in a conjunctival mass of significant size, mimicking neoplastic lesions.
- This case underscores the importance of considering iatrogenic or environmental factors in the differential diagnosis of conjunctival tumors.