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Balloon cell nevus of the iris
Mohib W Morcos1, Alexandre Odashiro2, Richard Bazin3
1Department of Pathology, Laval University, Canada.
Pathology, Research and Practice
|June 22, 2014
Summary
Balloon cell nevus is a rare iris lesion. This case report details a 55-year-old man with a growing pigmented lesion, highlighting the importance of considering balloon cell nevus in iris differential diagnoses.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Dermatopathology
Background:
- Balloon cell nevus is a rare histopathological finding characterized by balloon cells.
- Only one prior case of balloon cell nevus of the iris has been reported.
Observation:
- A 55-year-old man presented with a pigmented, elevated iris lesion present since age 12, with recent growth.
- Histopathology revealed a balloon cell nevus with clear, vacuolated cells and a coexisting typical spindle cell nevus.
Findings:
- The balloon cell nevus showed no atypia and was positive for Melan A, S100 protein, and HMB45.
- Differential diagnoses included xanthomatous lesions, adipocytic tumors, and clear cell malignancies.
Implications:
- Balloon cell nevus of the iris is rare but important to consider in the differential diagnosis of iris melanocytic lesions.
- Accurate histopathological diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management.
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