Management of common tumors of the conjunctiva

Abstract

Tumors of the conjunctiva are typically classified as congenital or acquired and as malignant, pre-malignant or benign. The acquired lesions are usually subdivided further according to the predominant cell type. Of the acquired lesions, epithelial (of which the majority are squamous cell), melanocytic, vascular and lymphoid tumors are the most common. It is important to understand the defining features of each of these subtypes. Prompt and appropriate treatment of pre-malignant and malignant disease is paramount with referral to specialist centers when necessary. Treatment has followed a trend from surgical to medical management in recent times.

Keywords::

• conjunctival dermoid
• conjunctival intraepithelial neoplasia
• conjunctival lymphoma
• conjunctival melanoma
• conjunctival squamous cell carcinoma
• conjunctival tumor
• conjunctival vascular tumor
• lipodermoid
• ocular surface squamous neoplasia
• primary acquired melanosis
• pterygium

Financial & competing interests disclosure

The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.

No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.

Key issues

• Understand the clinical features and management of pigmented and nonpigmented conjunctival lesions.

• Differentiate between benign, malignant and pre-malignant disease.

• Do not perform an incisional biopsy on suspicious conjunctival pigmented lesions.

• Understand the ‘no touch’ technique.

• Refer patients promptly, if possible, to a specialized service if malignant disease is suspected.