Adenocarcinoma of the ciliary epithelium in a 12-year-old black child

Histopathologic examination of a blind eye from a 12-year-old black girl revealed an unsuspected adenocarcinoma of the nonpigmented ciliary epithelium and evidence of previous penetrating trauma. The association between adenocarcinoma of the ciliary epithelium and ocular trauma has been well documented in elderly patients but not in children. The histopathologic distinction between a pleomorphic adenocarcinoma of the ciliary epithelium and a uveal melanoma may be difficult. Signs of previous penetrating trauma should heighten suspicion of an adenocarcinoma, even in young children.