[Conjunctival primary acquired melanosis].

BACKGROUND

Pigmented lesions of the conjunctiva may represent primary acquired melanosis. If histological examination reveals atypical melanocytes in the epithelial layer of the conjunctiva, there is a close to 50% risk of transformation to a conjunctival malignant melanoma. A combination of surgical excision and cryotherapy is the most widely recommended treatment for conjunctival primary acquired melanosis with atypia. Recently, topical chemotherapy with mitomycin-C eye drops has been established as a therapeutic option.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Based on two case reports and a review of the literature, clinical aspects and the use of topical chemotherapy are presented.

RESULTS AND INTERPRETATION

Pigmented conjunctival lesions arising in adults may represent primary acquired melanosis with atypia. In patients with large or multiple pigmentations, extensive surgery with cryotherapy is necessary. In such circumstances, topical chemotherapy with mitomycin-C eye drops is a good alternative and may lead to complete regression, as in our two patients.