Conjunctival cysts of the orbit following enucleation

Four patients developed orbital conjunctival cysts following enucleation. The cysts were demonstrated by ultrasonography and computerized tomography and confirmed by histopathology. They were lined by a non-keratinizing stratified squamous epithelium without goblet cells and contained fluid with mucinous strands. They were excised at eight, seven, and seven, and 25 years post-enucleation, respectively, the latter being the longest interval yet recorded. A simple classification of conjunctival cysts of the orbit is proposed and the mechanisms of the development of cysts in anophthalmic sockets are discussed. The effects of secretory rate and cyst growth are reviewed and surgical management in prevention and treatment of these lesions is outlined.